It has been a while since I have posted. I’ll try to get on a regular schedule here, for what it is worth (FWIW).

In 2 Sam. 16 we find a man named Shimei. Shemei was distant relative of King Saul and he had come out to curse King David who was in exile from his throne because Absalom had taken the hearts of the people and the throne of Israel.

As David passed by Shimei cursed him, kicked up dust, and threw stones at him. David refused to retaliate.

In 2 Sam. 19 the tide had turned; Absalom was dead and David is now returning to Jerusalem to resume his position on the throne. Shimei is now before David, this time on his face, confessing his sin, and pleading for mercy.

Amazingly, David again grants mercy to Shemei and swore to him that he would not die.

How do we treat our enemies? Do we operate with revenge? Do we refuse to forgive? Who has wronged you that you are harboring bitterness toward? May God help us to operate in His mercy and lovingkindness.

Postcript:

David did demand that justice be done, and eventually he had Solomon put Shemei to death, but this was after a long period of mercy with plenty of opportunity for Shemei to show his loyalty and righteousness. Apparently Shemei’s repentance was insincere, and he paid for it with his life when he rebelled against Solomon (1 Kings 2).