Lesson 15
The Father of Mercies (2 Corinthians 1:3; Exodus 34:6)
“Now Go Out and Encourage!” (2 Samuel 19:7a)
Read 2 Samuel 19:5-41 www.bible.com/bible/59/2sa.19.esv

Joab, one of David’s most trusted army officers, took David aside and rebuked him, reminding the king his army had not only just saved his life, but also had saved the lives of all of David’s family. The king was showing indifference and even hatred toward the soldiers who had fought so bravely to rescue him. If his son Absalom were still alive, David and his family and army would all be dead. He told the king to go out and encourage his loyal soldiers before they all deserted him. And wouldn’t this be the worst thing that could happen?

So King David appeared at the city gate in his usual place. Those who noticed him there spread the word David had come out to receive them. Soon all his soldiers appeared, presenting themselves to their king.

Everyone complained to their leaders it was time for the king to be brought back to Jerusalem. After all, David had repeatedly saved them from their enemies; and his son Absalom, who had tried to kill him and steal his throne, was dead.

When David heard the people wanted to bring him back to Jerusalem, he sent messages to the priests and an army officer to ask the elders of Judah why they were taking so long to welcome him home. Soon everyone in Judah sent for the king, begging him and all his servants to return to Jerusalem.

King David reached the Jordan River at the same time the people of Judah were approaching the river to escort their king across. Even the friend of Saul who had mocked and harassed David and his men joined the men of Judah to welcome the king.

Saul’s friend bowed respectfully in front of King David and asked for his forgiveness for his irresponsible behavior the day David left Jerusalem. (2 Samuel 16:5-14) He begged the king not to hold this against him, acknowledging his sin.

One of David’s army commanders burst out angrily, “Enough! We should kill him! After all, he cursed God’s anointed king.”

David, remembering his merciful and forgiving God, the Father of Mercies, answered, “No one is going to be killed today – I am once more the King of Israel, heading home to Jerusalem.” David gave Saul’s friend his word he would not die as long as he obeyed the king.

Apply God’s Word to your life:
*What does “mercy” mean?
*What is the greatest example of mercy you’ve ever experienced?
 *Think of other examples of mercy, either in your own life or in the life of someone else.