2 Samuel 9:1-13 “Keeping Our Word”
There was a great love between Jonathan and David and Jonathan risked his life in keeping his word to David. Though Jonathan died in battle, David sought to honor his promise to him by honoring a descendant of Saul. So he approached Ziba about this and he responded: “…’There is still a son of Jonathan who is crippled in both feet.’” (3c). His name was Mephibosheth and would normally be viewed as one posing a threat to David’s rule as king. Consequently, Mephibosheth approached David with humility and respect. David’s responded, “…, ‘Do not fear, for I will surely show kindness to you for the sake of your father Jonathan, and will restore to you all the land of your grandfather Saul; and you shall eat at my table regularly.’” (7) David rewards Jonathan’s love and loyalty by moving Mephibosheth from a place of suspicion to a place of honor. This was risky on David’s part, but for David the loss of character in not keeping his word before God, was an even a greater risk. Good and healthy leaders are careful to keep their promises. The lack of keeping our word can greatly damage our testimony of Christ.
