2 Samuel 15:1-37

15:1-6 | In the vacuum created by David’s family problems, his declining health, and the fractures within the kingdom, a prideful Absalom exalted himself, unlike David, who waited to be exalted by God. And Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel by groveling and kissing up to the people.

15:12 | The sacrifices Absalom offered were part of his own coronation ceremony. Absalom was once again tricking people into doing what he wanted.

15:13-16:14 | Psalm 3 was written in response to this event.

15:25-26 | David did not treat the ark as a mascot (1 Sam. 4:3-21) but instead selflessly returned it to Jerusalem so that God’s presence could rest with His people. He acknowledged that he had no claim to the throne except if God chose to give it to him.

15:31-37 | God answered David’s prayer for Ahithophel’s advice to be foolishness by sending Hushai, who could act as a spy. Sometimes our prayers are answered quickly through God sending other people to help us.