II Samuel 16

“And the king, and all the people who were with him, arrived weary at the Jordan” (14). When the coup against David succeeded, friends and counselors chose sides; Ittai and Hushai were faithful to the king, and Ahithophel chose Absalom (ch 15). Old grudges were revealed as Saul’s clan regarded the conflict as just desserts (16:8).  Others began jostling for position, or, like Ziba, used the chaos for personal advancement (v4).  Having fled in haste, David found safety by the Jordan River, and “there he refreshed himself” (v14).

“… whom should I serve?” (v19).  Lack of trust and conflicting loyalties can exhaust us.  Peace and wisdom, real “refreshing,” is found in God’s presence.