2 Samuel 8 & 9 - June 9, 2025

These chapters summarize David's military conquests against surrounding nations—Philistines, Moabites, Zobah, Aram (Syria), and Edomites—establishing Israel as a regional power and securing valuable resources. David dedicates captured precious metals to God, anticipating the temple's construction, while establishing effective administration through key appointments. The narrative then shifts to a remarkable act of covenant faithfulness as David seeks out "anyone left of Saul's house" to show kindness for Jonathan's sake. Discovering Jonathan's disabled son Mephibosheth, David restores his grandfather's lands and establishes him as a permanent guest at the royal table "like one of the king's sons." This juxtaposition of military victory with personal compassion toward a potential rival's heir reveals David's character at its best—foreshadowing Christ's triumph over enemies followed by gracious adoption of former enemies as children at His table.