Christians would agree that we should show mercy when we have been wronged (Eph. 4:32, Matt. 5:7). But could we stop ourselves even at our lowest point? In an age of instant online backlash and cancel culture, restraining a sharp reply feels nearly impossible. Yet the Scriptures provide great relevant examples to help. Part of David’s punishment for his sins with Bathsheba and against Uriah the Hittite comes to the forefront through the king’s son Absalom (2 Sam. 12:10-12). When Absalom successfully turned the heart of the people of Israel against David and towards himself, David was forced to flee Jerusalem (2 Sam. 15:6, 16-37). On the way, Shimei, of the house of Saul, took the opportunity to kick David while he was down (2 Sam. 16:5-14).
Shimei cursed David and threw stones at the king and his servants. Some of David’s mighty men, great warriors, were with him but he chose to move on instead of responding to Shimei with an attack (2 Sam. 16:6, 11-12; 23:8-39; 1 Chron. 11:10-47). Abishai, David’s nephew and a commander in the army, is the one who spoke up, wishing to end Shimei’s curses (2 Sam. 18:2). David exclaimed, “What have I to do with you, you sons of Zeruiah,” dismissing Abishai’s (and potentially Joab’s) vengeful impulse to kill Shimei. Notice immediately after, that David hoped for the blessings of God for himself instead of punishment for Shimei as recompense for his evil. He embodied Proverbs 19:11 which says, “The discretion of a man makes him slow to anger, And his glory is to overlook a transgression.”
Patiently waiting for God’s blessings amidst trouble is a consistent theme during the darkest days of David’s rule and this applies to daily Christian living (Jas. 1:2-4; Rom. 5:3-5). David’s self-control and patience remind us to control our emotions and move forward with godly behavior no matter the trial. He provides a good reminder to us that we do not have to lash out at our enemies. We can choose to allow God to have the final say in the judgment.
Ultimately, David’s example finds its perfect fulfillment in Christ, the greater Son of David. When reviled, Jesus did not retaliate; when cursed, He blessed; when struck, He turned the other cheek (1 Pet. 2:23; Matt. 5:39). Shimei’s stones and words pale in comparison to the mockery, beating, and crucifixion Jesus endured, yet He committed Himself to Him who judges justly. As followers of this merciful King, we are called not merely to imitate David’s restraint but to draw strength from Christ’s example to respond with grace in our lowest moments. By doing so, we reflect the transformative power of the gospel, turning potential bitterness into opportunities for growth.
David inspires us to trust God more deeply, leave revenge in His court, and look beyond our self-interest. He was far from perfect, but he was the best king Israel ever had until his Descendant took the throne eternally (Matt. 1:6; 28:18). David’s consistent love for God through all he faced is worthy of emulation.
-Ross Haffner