2 Samuel 19

David, the King, reaffirms his status as the insurrection against him is put to rest. As he returns to Jerusalem in triumph, he encounters several individuals with whom he has a personal history: Barzillai, David's elderly benefactor (v. 32); Mephibosheth, Saul's relative to whom David showed mercy (2 Samuel 9) but whom Ziba accused of treason (2 Samuel 16); and Shimei. We first met Shimei in chapter 16 as well - the one who pelted David with rocks and cursed him has come to his senses. Shimei falls down before David, confesses his sins (v. 20), and asks for mercy. 

Abishai, the one who initially wanted to remove Shimei's head from his shoulders, reminds David again of the sins of Shimei, and the penalty he deserves for sinning against the LORD's anointed. But David responds in mercy, promising Shimei on his own authority that he shall not die for his sins.

What a picture of God's grace to us! When we realize for the first time that we've sinned against the Anointed One, Jesus, we come to Him and admit that our rebellion against him was wrong. Satan, our accuser, reminds God of our sins, and the penalty we deserve. But the only one with the right to pronounce the death penalty on us - the King, Jesus - declares that on His authority, and because of what He has done for us, we will not die!

Questions: 1) Read Colossians 1:21-22 for a picture of what Christ has done to make you 'free from accusation'.  2) Recall in the notes on 2 Samuel 16 that David entrusted his ill treatment to the Lord first - which enabled him to forgive later. As you practice enduring ill treatment from others by entrusting it to the Lord, may He help you to extend forgiveness accordingly.