2 Samuel 14:17

And now your servant says, 'May the word of my lord the king bring me rest, for my lord the king is able to discern good and evil, just like the angel of God. May the LORD your God be with you.'"

Study Bible

And now your servant says
This phrase reflects the humility and submission of the speaker, who is Joab's wise woman from Tekoa. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, addressing the king as "your servant" was a sign of respect and acknowledgment of the king's authority. It also indicates the speaker's role in the narrative as a mediator, seeking favor and understanding from King David.

‘May the word of my lord the king bring me rest
The speaker expresses a desire for peace and resolution, hoping that King David's decision will provide comfort and justice. This reflects the biblical theme of seeking wisdom and guidance from those in authority, as seen in other scriptures where leaders are expected to act justly and provide rest for their people (e.g., Proverbs 29:4).

for my lord the king is able to discern good and evil
This phrase acknowledges King David's reputation for wisdom and discernment, qualities that are essential for a ruler. It echoes the biblical principle that leaders should possess the ability to distinguish between right and wrong, as seen in Solomon's request for wisdom in 1 Kings 3:9. The reference to discerning good and evil also alludes to the knowledge of good and evil in Genesis 3, highlighting the importance of moral judgment.

just like the angel of God
The comparison to an "angel of God" elevates King David's discernment to a divine level, suggesting that his judgments are guided by God. In biblical literature, angels are often messengers of God, possessing insight and authority (e.g., Genesis 19:1-22). This phrase underscores the expectation that David's decisions are aligned with divine will and justice.

May the LORD your God be with you.’”
This blessing invokes God's presence and favor upon King David, a common practice in biblical times to express goodwill and divine support. It reflects the belief that God's presence is essential for righteous leadership and success, as seen in the blessings given to leaders like Joshua (Joshua 1:9). The invocation of God's name also serves as a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and the king, emphasizing the need for divine guidance in governance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King David
The reigning king of Israel, known for his wisdom and discernment, as well as his deep relationship with God.

2. The Woman of Tekoa
A wise woman sent by Joab to speak to King David in a parable to persuade him to reconcile with his son Absalom.

3. Joab
David's military commander who orchestrates the plan to bring Absalom back to Jerusalem.

4. Absalom
David's estranged son, who had fled after killing his brother Amnon.

5. Tekoa
A town in Judah, known for its wise inhabitants, including the woman who speaks to David.

Teaching Points

Discernment as a Divine Gift
David's ability to discern good and evil is likened to that of an angel, suggesting that true discernment is a gift from God. Believers should seek God's wisdom in their decision-making processes.

The Role of Intercession
The woman of Tekoa acts as an intercessor, much like how believers are called to intercede for others in prayer and action, seeking reconciliation and peace.

The Importance of Reconciliation
The account underscores the importance of reconciliation within families and communities. Christians are called to be peacemakers, reflecting God's heart for restoration.

God's Presence in Leadership
The blessing, "May the LORD your God be with you," highlights the necessity of God's presence in leadership. Leaders should rely on God's guidance to lead justly and wisely.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the discernment attributed to David in 2 Samuel 14:17 compare to the wisdom Solomon requests in 1 Kings 3:9, and how can we apply this in our daily decision-making?

2. In what ways can we act as intercessors in our communities, similar to the woman of Tekoa, to bring about reconciliation and peace?

3. Reflect on a situation in your life where you needed discernment between good and evil. How did you seek God's guidance in that situation?

4. How does the theme of reconciliation in this passage relate to Jesus' teachings on forgiveness and peacemaking in the New Testament?

5. What steps can you take to ensure that God's presence is with you in your leadership roles, whether in your family, workplace, or community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 3:9
Solomon, David's son, asks God for a discerning heart to govern the people and to distinguish between right and wrong, echoing the discernment attributed to David.

Hebrews 5:14
Discusses the mature ability to discern good from evil, a quality attributed to David in this passage.

Genesis 3:5
The serpent's temptation of Eve involves the promise of knowing good and evil, contrasting the divine discernment attributed to David.

Psalm 34:14
Encourages believers to turn from evil and do good, a principle of discernment that David exemplifies.