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Chapter 20 is a short chapter on the battle against the Syrians and the Ammonites, as well as against the Philistines. However, the author of Chronicles had condensed his version of the battle against the Syrians and Ammonites as compared to the parallel narrative found in 2 Samuel 11 and 12. What happened during this time of battle?
Verse 1 tells us that Joab was at war while David remained at Jerusalem. Through custom and experience, David should have been at the battle against the Syrians and the Ammonites, but he remained behind in Jerusalem. What was he doing in Jerusalem? The account in 2 Samuel tells us that he saw Bathsheba bathing, acted upon his lust, committed adultery, made her pregnant, and conspired with Joab to send her husband, Uriah, to the frontline to cover up. David was not only disobedient to the responsibility that God had given to him as king, he also sinned against the Lord.
But David did not dwell in his sin. During this time, David was also rebuked by Nathan, the prophet whom God has sent. David saw how his disobedience and great sin had displeased God, and he repented. Then 2 Samuel 12:29, told us that, “David gathered all the people together and went to Rabbah and fought against it and took it.” He returned to what he ought to be doing, to be at battle, and claimed the crown of the Ammonite king. David was disobedient, and he committed adultery, but it did not condemn him to a life of defeat and ruin. He was made aware of his sin, and he repented. The crown on his head showed that victory can still be his when he is obedient to God.
David and his mighty men continued to gain victories over the Philistine giants. God continues to use David as an example for others, and to lead men into victorie. As one continues to be obedient and abide in God, God himself will lead His people into victories.
What is God reminding you to be obedient about today? What is God asking you to repent of today? What is God asking you to put down and to return to Him today? We can lead victorious lives, when we walk in obedience to God’s will.
Prayer: Dear God, thank you for being the commander of my life, and for leading me into a victorious life. Forgive me of the times when I have strayed away from You. Help me to be obedient to you all the days of my life. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
