David’s heart was troubled because he disobeyed God. To him it was the most terrible consideration that he had slain God’s anointed king.
This was a test. God had delivered Saul into David‘s hands. David had the promise of the kingdom, but no order to harm the king. No request to fight his way to obtain power. He passed this test. Not only would he do it, but he wouldn’t be heart-grieved over watching his men partake in the disrespect either.
My commentary says, “David rendered good for evil to him from whom he received evil for good.”
David viewed this action inconsistent with the respect what he owed the king. Oh yes... and could it be for us as is with our president? According to Scripture, we are to respect those in power and authority over us (Rom 13:1, 2; Titus 3:1). And we do this not because they’ve “earned” or “deserve” respect, but because anything less than complete honor towards them is inconsistent with the Christian lifestyle. It damages our effectiveness for drawing in souls to Christ.
I believe that we sacrifice Christ’s reputation on the altar of contempt and chastisement. Our job is to respect those in leadership, while submitting to the full and ultimate authority of God, who is in control.
David steadily opposed the urgent instigations of his followers to put an end to their troubles by the death of their persecutor. And David would’ve done so if he possessed a revengeful heart.
Did David have “human reasoning” to retaliate? Sure! Oh but wouldn’t it be more God-like to forgive? David was remembering his own kingship. And possibly asking the internal question, “What kind of character am I developing?”
David was able to stop and perceive the will of God. He realize the foolishness in the way he was behaving (Prov 24:9).
Oh and then there’s the final thought within my commentary, “ Every thought which discourages and removes thee from growing in love and trust towards God is a messenger of hell.”
Our conscience should always bring clarity and conversion.
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