2 Samuel 15:20 – “You came only yesterday. And today shall I make you wander about with us, when I do not know where I am going? Go back, and take your people with you. May the Lord show you kindness and faithfulness.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, David continues his conversation with Ittai the Gittite, who had recently joined David and his followers. David offers Ittai the option to return to his home rather than accompany him in his uncertain and dangerous journey. David acknowledges that Ittai had only recently come under his leadership, and it would be unfair to ask him to wander in exile with no clear destination. Instead, David blesses Ittai, expressing his wish that God would show him kindness and faithfulness, whether or not Ittai chooses to stay. This reflects David’s concern for Ittai’s well-being, highlighting David’s humility and care for others, even as he faces a personal crisis.
Historical Context
At this point in the story, David is fleeing Jerusalem due to the rebellion led by his son, Absalom. As David gathers his supporters to flee, Ittai the Gittite, a foreigner and relatively new follower of David, comes to join him. The Gittites were originally from Gath, a Philistine city, meaning that Ittai was not an Israelite by birth. Nevertheless, he had chosen to serve David, showing the depth of his loyalty. David’s offer for Ittai to return home instead of accompanying him into exile reflects David’s selflessness. He does not want to drag Ittai into his personal turmoil, recognizing that Ittai has no obligation to stay with him in such uncertain times.
Theological Implications
This verse illustrates several important theological principles, including loyalty, kindness, and free will. David’s willingness to let Ittai choose his own path, without pressure or expectation, mirrors how God respects human free will. God invites people to follow Him, but He does not force loyalty. At the same time, David blesses Ittai, expressing a desire for God’s kindness and faithfulness to be shown to him, regardless of Ittai’s decision. This shows the importance of blessing others, even in times of personal struggle, and trusting God to provide for them. The kindness and faithfulness that David speaks of are key attributes of God’s character, which are extended to those who follow Him.
Literary Analysis
David’s words to Ittai are filled with humility and grace. The phrase “shall I make you wander about with us, when I do not know where I am going?” reveals David’s vulnerability. David, once a powerful king, is now unsure of his future, and he does not want to burden Ittai with his uncertainties. The phrase “May the Lord show you kindness and faithfulness” is a blessing, emphasizing David’s concern for Ittai’s well-being. This moment serves as a reflection of David’s leadership style—one marked by humility and genuine care for his followers. The structure of the verse highlights David’s respect for Ittai’s autonomy, leaving the decision to follow or leave entirely up to him.
Biblical Cross-References
- Ruth 1:8 – “Then Naomi said to her two daughters-in-law, ‘Go back, each of you, to your mother’s home. May the Lord show you kindness, as you have shown kindness to your dead husbands and to me.'” Like Naomi, David offers a blessing and the freedom to leave, showing care for the well-being of those close to him.
- Psalm 25:10 – “All the ways of the Lord are loving and faithful toward those who keep the demands of his covenant.” David’s blessing for Ittai reflects his desire for Ittai to experience the kindness and faithfulness of God.
- Genesis 24:27 – “Praise be to the Lord, the God of my master Abraham, who has not abandoned his kindness and faithfulness to my master.” David’s prayer for God’s kindness and faithfulness to Ittai mirrors God’s consistent care for those who trust in Him throughout Scripture.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of showing kindness and respect to others, even in times of personal crisis. David’s blessing for Ittai, despite his own uncertainty, teaches us to care for those around us and to seek God’s blessings for them, even when we ourselves are going through difficult times. It also challenges believers to trust in God’s faithfulness and kindness, knowing that God is with us, regardless of our circumstances. The verse highlights the importance of free will in our relationships with others and with God, showing that true loyalty and commitment cannot be forced but must come from the heart.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
David’s blessing upon Ittai reflects the nature of God’s love, which is full of kindness and faithfulness. Just as David wished these blessings upon Ittai, God extends His kindness and faithfulness to all who follow Him. God’s love is not conditional on our circumstances or actions; He desires to show His grace and mercy to all people. David’s willingness to let Ittai choose whether to stay or go also mirrors God’s respect for our free will. God invites us to follow Him, but He never forces us. Instead, He offers His love and kindness to those who seek Him, always desiring what is best for us.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
David’s interaction with Ittai foreshadows the way Jesus invited people to follow Him. Like David, Jesus gave people the freedom to choose, never forcing anyone to follow Him but always offering grace and blessing to those who did. Jesus, like David, often faced personal struggles and uncertainty, yet He consistently showed kindness and care to others. Jesus’ life was marked by a deep concern for those around Him, and He often blessed others, just as David did with Ittai. Ultimately, Jesus is the fulfillment of the kindness and faithfulness that David speaks of in this verse—through Christ, God’s love and grace are fully revealed to the world.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How do you respond when others offer you a choice during difficult times? Are you able to trust God’s kindness and faithfulness, even in uncertainty?
- What can we learn from David’s blessing of Ittai about how we should care for others, even when we are facing personal struggles?
- How does Jesus’ invitation to follow Him, like David’s invitation to Ittai, challenge us to make a free and wholehearted commitment to God, trusting in His love and guidance?