2 Samuel 15:26

But if He should say, 'I do not delight in you,' then here I am; let Him do to me whatever seems good to Him."

Study Bible

But if He should say
This phrase introduces a hypothetical situation, reflecting David's deep submission to God's will. The Hebrew word for "say" is "אָמַר" (amar), which is often used in the Old Testament to denote God's communication with His people. This highlights the importance of divine guidance and the need for believers to be attentive to God's voice, even when it may not align with their desires.

I do not delight in you
The word "delight" comes from the Hebrew "חָפֵץ" (chaphets), meaning to take pleasure or have favor. David acknowledges the possibility that God might not find favor in him at this moment. This reflects a profound humility and recognition of God's sovereignty. Historically, this is a moment of crisis for David, as he faces the rebellion of his son Absalom. It serves as a reminder that God's favor is not to be presumed upon but is a gift of grace.

then here I am
This phrase signifies David's readiness to accept God's judgment. The Hebrew "הִנְנִי" (hineni) is a term of availability and submission, often used by prophets and patriarchs when responding to God's call (e.g., Abraham in Genesis 22:1). It underscores a posture of obedience and surrender, which is central to the life of faith.

let Him do to me
David's statement here is one of complete surrender to God's will. The Hebrew verb "עָשָׂה" (asah) means to do or make, indicating action. David is willing to accept whatever God decides, trusting in His wisdom and justice. This reflects a deep trust in God's character, even amidst uncertainty and potential suffering.

as He sees fit
The phrase "as He sees fit" is derived from the Hebrew "כַּאֲשֶׁר יִיטַב בְּעֵינָיו" (ka'asher yitav be'enav), meaning according to what is good in His eyes. This emphasizes God's omniscience and perfect judgment. David's faith is evident in his trust that whatever God decides will ultimately be for the best, even if it is not immediately apparent. This is a powerful testament to the belief in God's ultimate goodness and the call for believers to trust in His divine plan.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The central figure in this passage, King David is fleeing from his son Absalom, who has declared himself king. David's response in this verse reflects his submission to God's will.

2. Absalom
David's son, who has initiated a rebellion against his father, seeking to take over the throne of Israel.

3. Jerusalem
The city from which David is fleeing. It is the political and spiritual center of Israel, and its loss signifies a significant crisis for David.

4. The Ark of the Covenant
Earlier in the chapter, David instructs that the Ark be returned to Jerusalem, signifying his trust in God's presence and sovereignty rather than relying on symbols.

5. Zadok and Abiathar
Priests who are loyal to David and are instructed to return the Ark to Jerusalem, symbolizing David's faith in God's plan.

Teaching Points

Submission to God's Sovereignty
David's response exemplifies a heart fully surrendered to God's will, trusting that God's plans are ultimately for good, even in difficult circumstances.

Faith Over Symbols
By sending the Ark back to Jerusalem, David demonstrates that his faith is in God Himself, not in religious symbols or artifacts.

Trust in God's Justice
David's willingness to accept God's judgment reflects a deep trust in God's justice and righteousness, encouraging believers to trust God's decisions in their lives.

Humility in Leadership
David's humility in accepting whatever outcome God decides is a powerful lesson for leaders to remain humble and reliant on God, especially in times of crisis.

Endurance in Trials
David's situation teaches believers to endure trials with faith, knowing that God is in control and His purposes will prevail.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's response in 2 Samuel 15:26 demonstrate his faith in God's sovereignty, and how can we apply this in our own lives when facing uncertainty?

2. In what ways does David's decision to send the Ark back to Jerusalem challenge us to evaluate where we place our trust?

3. How can we cultivate a heart of submission to God's will, as seen in David's attitude, in our daily walk with Christ?

4. What lessons can we learn from David's humility and trust in God's justice that can be applied to leadership roles in our communities or churches?

5. How do the connections between 2 Samuel 15:26 and other scriptures like Job 1:21 and Luke 22:42 deepen our understanding of enduring trials with faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 37:5
This verse encourages believers to commit their way to the Lord and trust in Him, similar to David's trust in God's will in 2 Samuel 15:26.

Job 1:21
Job's acceptance of God's will, whether in blessing or suffering, parallels David's submission to God's decision regarding his fate.

Luke 22:42
Jesus' prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane, where He submits to the Father's will, echoes David's attitude of surrender to God's plan.