II Samuel 16-18

“It may be that the Lord will look upon my misery and restore to me his covenant blessing instead of his curse today” (16:12). After following his own desires resulted in terrible consequences, David repented and returned to relying on the Lord. He refused to punish Shimei, who was cursing and persecuting him, choosing to leave him in God’s hands. At the same time, David realized that armies alone would not stop Absalom’s rebellion. He prayed that Absalom would listen to the wrong advisor: “Lord, turn Ahithophel’s counsel into foolishness” (15:30).

“I will do whatever seems best to you” (18:4). Humbled, King David was finally willing to listen to the Lord and to his advisors. “When I was brought low, he saved me” (Ps 116:6).