2 Samuel 8 - 9, 1 Chronicles 18 (9th May) - James

2 Samuel 8 & 1 Chr 18

"The Lord gave David victory wherever he went."

This chapter describes the victories David experienced over the Philistines, Moabites, Hadadezer, Arameans and the Edomites. Everywhere David went, he subdued the enemy and placed garrisons in the area to control the land. David even received favour from Tou the king of Hamath as David defeated Hadadezer, his old enemy. David also made sure that all the plunder, including the gifts that Tou the king of Hamath gave to David, was dedicated to God.

** David was a good steward of the treasures that came his way, dedicating all these to the Lord. In doing so, I believe that God gave him even more. God's word did not talk about the strength of David's army, but reminds us twice, that "The Lord gave David victory wherever he went". Sometimes we all need reminders that only the Lord gives us victories, despite our strengths or weaknesses. - Psalms 121

2 Samuel 9

The chapter shows us the character of David as he shows kindness on Mephiboseth (whose both legs were crippled), the son of Jonathan. When David found out that Mephiboseth survived his father, David did not waste one minute but had Mephiboseth brought before him, voluntarily restored the property that belonged to Jonathan's family and even insists on having Mephiboseth the cripple eat at his table like the his sons for the rest of his life.

** What struck me was David did not wait till a more convenient time or the next day/procrastinate to show kindness/giving, he just went and did it, not holding back in giving.