King James Version
The Book of 2 Samuel
Chapter 10
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Commentary
2 Samuel 10
This chapter focuses on another victory for David, as God pours out His mighty blessings on him. What I want to mention here is that David made a covenant with, Nahash, Hanun's father. The Ammonites did not trust David, thinking he was only going to spy out the land to destroy them. It is important to learn here that when we make a promise to someone, in spite of our best efforts or intentions, it is not always possible to make good on the promise. God wants us to keep our promises, as best as possible, or to not even make the promise at all. Think about it before you offer an oath to someone. Think about what might happen. Be sure you can keep the promise, no matter what. Make your answer, "yea, yea, or nay, nay".
In this chapter, many people died because of suspicion and lack of trust. God would have it that none perish, but that all people come to repentance. The original covenant, found in 1 Samuel 11, could have included that the Ammonites worship only the one true God, but there was no mention of it. Instead, after much time had passed, and never really any peace between the People and the Ammonites, they came to this battle and were struck down again.
On a personal level, this very same thing can happen in our lives if we do not seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. Keep our promises, and seek for salvation for the souls we come into contact with. This is first, and most important. It will solve the potential problems that we can't necessarily see in the future. It will make certain of peace. Peace within oneself will result in peace among the nations. Even if we do have issues, we can work through them together, with the love of God in our hearts.
Don't take lightly the promises you make to others. Think it through, and do the best you can in order to keep that promise. Learn how to identify the achievable and believable promises. We can maintain our integrity this way. Then, if there is a fight between us, seek God first and be confident that your heart is right.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010 - 8:00 AM
