Chapter 73—The Last Years of David
This chapter is based on
2 Samuel 24
;
1 Kings 1
;
1 Chronicles 21
;
28
;
29
.
The overthrow of Absalom did not at once bring peace to the
kingdom. So large a part of the nation had joined in revolt that David
would not return to his capital and resume his authority without an
invitation from the tribes. In the confusion that followed Absalom’s
defeat there was no prompt and decided action to recall the king, and
when at last Judah undertook to bring back David, the jealousy of
the other tribes was roused, and a counter-revolution followed. This,
however, was speedily quelled, and peace returned to Israel.
The history of David affords one of the most impressive testimonies
ever given to the dangers that threaten the soul from power and riches
and worldly honor—those things that are most eagerly desired among
men. Few have ever passed through an experience better adapted
to prepare them for enduring such a test. David’s early life as a
shepherd, with its lessons of humility, of patient toil, and of tender
care for his flocks; the communion with nature in the solitude of the
hills, developing his genius for music and poetry, and directing his
thoughts to the Creator; the long discipline of his wilderness life,
calling into exercise courage, fortitude, patience, and faith in God, had
been appointed by the Lord as a preparation for the throne of Israel.
David had enjoyed precious experiences of the love of God, and had
been richly endowed with His Spirit; in the history of Saul he had
seen the utter worthlessness of mere human wisdom. And yet worldly
success and honor so weakened the character of David that he was
repeatedly overcome by the tempter.
Intercourse with heathen peoples led to a desire to follow their
national customs and kindled ambition for worldly greatness. As
the people of Jehovah, Israel was to be honored; but as pride and
self-confidence increased, the Israelites were not content with this
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pre-eminence. They cared rather for their standing among other na-
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