19:1-4 The soldiers of Absalom's family return to the city and their homes. But all of the people hear of David's grieving and a pall is placed over the celebration of his victory.
19:5-6 Joab becomes angry with David. He feels that David's grief makes him ungrateful to the army of men who risked their lives for his cause and to rescue Israel. Joab feels that David's actions suggest to others that he would have preferred to have been defeated. Joab does not understand David's gentle heart (he was the one to kill Absalom).
19:7 But Joab is partially right: David owes it to his faithful men to show gratitude for their courage and victory. As a leader, it is David's responsibility to foster a cohesive atmosphere. Though Absalom was David's family, biologically, David's soldiers are like his family as well and he owes them his attention and gratitude.
19:8 David's presence at the gate confirmed to his people that he indeed intended to remain king. It showed them that he acknowledged the victory and stood before them grateful for their service to Israel.
19:9-10 The people throughout the tribes of Israel were confused. They had betrayed David, the victorious king. They had chosen Absalom, a now-dead betrayer.
19:11-12 David works to reestablish his relationship with the tribe of Judah; David never forced is authority over anyone, either the people accepted him as king or they had no king.
19:13-14 As a show of compromise, David appoints Amasa (Absalom's commander) to Joab's position. This move made Absalom's followers happier. The tribe of Judah accept David as king.
19:15-18 David and his people re-cross the Jordan to return home as a celebrated king.
19:19-20 In 2 Samuel 16:13, David was mercilessly taunted and assaulted by this man, Shimei. But David chose not to react. David chose not to let Shimei's cruel words destroy him. Now Shimei apologizes and asks for forgiveness; he acknowledges his wrongdoing. It's a good thing David did not let his taunting ruin him! It would have been a loss for nothing. We must not let internal or external interference convince us to give up or stop believing (in God, or in ourselves). David returns a victor and his enemies are apologetic because David kept his faith.
19:21-23 Despite David's men's willingness to punish and kill Shimei for his acts against David, David is merciful. David explains that he does not need to order Shimei's death to know that he is king. David is not on a power-trip. David feels more powerful being merciful. David feels more powerful by showing forgiveness and restraint. He promises Shimei that he will not die.
19:24-25 In 2 Samuel 16, Mephibosheth's servant Ziba betrayed him and sullied his friendship with David. David asks his friend why he betrayed him, but the truth of the situation is explained to him.
19:26-28 Ziba pretended that Mephibosheth switched allegience in order to receive the gifts David meant for his master. But as he stands before David, it is clear that Mephibosheth has been distraught over David's forced exit and is overjoyed to see him back safely.
19:29-30 David is satisfied that Mephibosheth tells the truth and is willing to forget and dismiss the matter. Because he only has the word of each man, and no proof, David allows Mephibosheth to divide his home and provision equally with Ziba (David had given it all to Ziba). But Mephibosheth remembers David's kindness to him when he had nothing and tells David that the only reward he needs is seeing David restored as king.
18:31 David receives one of the best blessings we can ever be given by God: he is surrounded by people who genuinely care for him rather than their own interests. Another of these men is Barzillai, an elderly rich man who provided for David out of genuine kindness and selflessness.
18:32-37 Though David intends to show his gratitude for Barzillai's provision and support by bringing him into Jerusalem, Barzillai prefers to stay near his home. He explains that he cannot enjoy much at his age, his senses are dulling and the journey would be difficult.
18:38-39 Instead, he allows David to take his servant Chimham (for David is insisted on returning the kindness given to him). David lives by God's philosophy: kindness is always appreciated and reciprocated.
18:40-41 David returns, escorted by thousands. Again we see the power and orchestration of God. When nearly everyone betrayed David or counted him out, God planned the details of his eventual victory over every enemy. God brought the victory into reality.
18:42 The tribes begin to fight over their claim to David. Ironic, considering they all left him so recently. This is why it is imperative that we join with God and trust Him to value us, restore us and respect us. People will sometimes hurt us or leave us but God never will. God has been right beside David the entire time. David was never alone.
