2 Samuel 19:27

New International Version (NIV)

And he has slandered your servant to my lord the king. My lord the king is like an angel of God; so do whatever you wish.

For Meditation

He must have been the most affected and hurting of all the members of David’s household. Lame in both feet, David had graciously given Mephibosheth a seat at his table because of Jonathan, his father (2 Sam.9:3,7). He was undeserving of such honor, but grace had found him, and he was ever thankful (8). So, why was he not by the king’s side when he fled Jerusalem after the insurrection of Absalom, his son  (15:13-18)?

“He is staying in Jerusalem, because he thinks, ‘Today the Israelites will restore to me my grandfather’s kingdom,’” Ziba, the steward of Mephibosheth told David (16:3). What a painting of ungratefulness and disloyalty Ziba presented to King David about Mephibosheth! But, did it tell the whole story? Was the painting really what it looked like?

David now rides back into Jerusalem, victorious, though bruised by the death of his beloved, but rebellious son; and there he comes, riding on his mule to meet the king (19:24-30). But, why is Mephibosheth so unkept? His feet were unmanicured, his moustache was untrimmed, and his clothes were unwashed. What’s going on, Mephibosheth? You abandoned the king in his darkest hour when he needed you most. So, why now?

“My Lord the king, since I your servant am lame, I said, ‘I will have my donkey saddled and will ride on it, so I can go with the king.’ But Ziba my servant betrayed me. And he has slandered your servant to my lord the king. My lord the king is an angel of God; so, do whatever you wish. All my grandfather’s descendants deserved nothing but death from my lord the king, but you gave your servant a place among those who eat at your table. So, what right do I have to make any appeal to the king” (26-28).

Mephibosheth’s response is the consummate response to grace in the most trying and difficult situation when anger and bitterness may have prevailed. It was set in humility and dripped with gratefulness from a thankful heart. It had the right attitude before the king, despite the betrayal and slander by his wicked and greedy steward for personal favor. Mephibosheth confronted his situation with candor and grace and withered the storm (29-30). Those around the king may have believed Ziba. But thank God the king had to decide Mephibosheth’s fate and not them.

Your story may be the same today. Some people have slandered and betrayed you for personal gain. They have left you wounded and hurting badly. But, what does it matter, if everybody believes their story over yours? Yes, it’s painful, but your painting and theirs are before Jesus, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who knows the truth and reserves the right of judgment in the matter. Take heart, for He has never got it wrong.

Shalom