David-First Thought: Worship

By Mary Vee
II Samuel 15

From David's Journals

courtesy of visualbiblealive.com

I looked back at the city.

Walking away with great sadness because my son, Absalom, had taken over the kingship. It broke my heart. On the other hand, a mighty strength, a resolve rolled around in my veins, boiling within me because God had given me the job and I needed to finish my work.

We crossed the Brook Kidron to escape. The Levities carried the ark of the covenant of God. 

But at the brook, I spoke with Zadok. "Carry the ark of God back into the city. If, somehow, I find favor in the eyes of the Lord, He will bring me back and show me both the ark and the dwelling place. If, I don't find favor, let Him do to me whatever seems good to Him.

"In fact, Zadok, you and your sons should stay in the city with the ark. I will wait in the wilderness for a message from you indicating I can return."

Zadok and his sons bowed and picked up the ark, carrying it back to the city where they remained.

I needed to spend time worshiping God. I led the people up to the Mount of Olives, weeping as I walked barefooted. My head was covered. 

During this time, a messengers reported one of my advisors had gone with Absalom. I lifted my eyes to the heavens and prayed, "O Lord, I pray, turn the counsel of Ahithophel into foolishness."

Near the top of the mountain, Hushai ran toward me. Hushai had been a good friend and also an advisor. His robe had been torn and filled with dirt. I couldn't let him go with me, this would only stir up more trouble. " Hushai," I said. "Go back to the city and tell Absalom you will be his servant as you were his father's servant."

I held up my hand to make him wait for further instruction. "Listen carefully. Whatever you hear from the king's house, go and tell Zadok and his son, Abiathar the priests. Through them you can send me everything you hear."

He bowed to me and nodded. "I will be happy to serve you, my lord." 

Thank you, my friend. God be with you until we meet again.

I don't know how long we will have to wait in the wilderness, Lord. Please bring us back home soon.

****************************
1. Why did David and his loyal people run from the city?
2. What did David tell Zadok and his sons to do?
3. Where did David lead the people with him? and Why?
4. Who met David at the top of the mountain?
5. What did David tell the man to do?

During this time David was inspired to write this Psalm. 
Psalm 3

I have so many enemies, Lord,
    so many who turn against me!
 They talk about me and say,
    “God will not help him.”

 But you, O Lord, are always my shield from danger;
    you give me victory
    and restore my courage.
 I call to the Lord for help,
    and from his sacred hill^[b] he answers me.

I lie down and sleep,
    and all night long the Lord protects me.
 I am not afraid of the thousands of enemies
    who surround me on every side.

 Come, Lord! Save me, my God!
You punish all my enemies
    and leave them powerless to harm me.
Victory comes from the Lord—
    may he bless his people.