2 Samuel 3
In previous accounts of David’s life in 1 Samuel, we read about how he carefully maintained his relationship with God through a life of obedience. Not even in the matter of King Saul was he found wanting, as he resisted laying his hand against the Lord’s anointed. God faithfully watched out for David, and in 2 Samuel 3:1, we are told that there was a long war between the house of Saul and the house of David, But David grew stronger and stronger, and the house of Saul grew weaker and weaker.
This verse was strangely followed by a list of 6 sons born to David by 6 different women in verses 2-5.
How did this man, accustomed to inquiring from the Lord on different occasions in diverse situations of life suddenly end up in Polygamy? A clear violation of God’s governing principles for Kings in Deuteronomy 17:17- “Neither shall he multiply wives for himself, lest his heart turn away; nor shall he greatly multiply silver and gold for himself”
The answer may not be far-fetched. David as soon as he was installed king in Hebron, went the way of the Kings of the nations surrounding Israel. He sought to strengthen his rule by forming alliances with them through marriage, for we are told that he even married Maacah the princess of Geshur.
Often for political reasons, kings would marry foreign women as a means of fostering alliances with other nations to strengthen their kingdom. Unfortunately, while the list of sons born to David in Hebron would seem to show David’s growing strength, none of these men are later mentioned in a favourable way. David’s foray into polygamy did not instil Godly values in his children.
Could it be possible that the years of hardship David spent fleeing from Saul and conquering the kingdom had weakened David’s moral character, thereby exposing him to a life of ease and sensual indulgence which later led to adultery and murder?
These are questions begging answers. But the point to note is that in the pursuit of our aspirations and quest to achieve life’s goals, we inadvertently become exposed to certain cultures and practices which may adversely affect our resolve to live a life of consecration to God when we indulge in them. These may culminate in hard to break habits or lifestyles that become an albatross to the promise of rest on every side which God in Christ guarantees every believer.
On the short run, conforming may look advantageous and harmless, but ultimately there is no happy ending.
Sadly, David suffered much heartache as the numerous sons born to him caused him great trouble. Rape, murder, rebellion and greed all resulted from jealous rivalry among these brothers.
An important lesson therefore, is that even in matters that are considered mundane, there is a need to seek God’s input. (Proverbs 3:5-6)
As the times become more perilous, only the people that know their God will be strong enough to say no to the seducing spirits which lurk all around.
We cannot afford to lower our guards by allowing the prevailing circumstances lure us into making choices which go against the doctrines of Christ, just because the majority are doing it. We must remember the words of Apostle Paul in 1Timothy 4:16, “Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you…”
