One of the most helpful aspects of the Christian Bible is its willingness to portray the history of its heroes in all its messy reality. People like King David are not portrayed as constant conquerors, but as people with real problems that challenge them – even problems that are consequences of their own failures.

In these chapters, David’s monumental life was not over, but it had turned into a monumental mess. He was the rightful king, but he had been outmaneuvered by his son, Absalom, and was forced to flee the city. His past victories were little comfort for him as he anticipated a time of obscurity, hiding and exile.

The one bright light that shines for David during this dark time is the loyalty shown him by those who refuse to betray him. It must have been a great comfort for him to still hear some of his servants say, “We will do whatever our lord the king decides.” When his own family and kingdom had pushed him aside, it must have been truly encouraging for him to have friends and followers who refused to give up on him.

The Christian life is rarely one of constant success. We have times of great blessing, and we also have messy times that we would rather not remember, and hope others forget as well. When all is said and done, we can only hope that our lives reflect an attempt to obey God, and some good examples of times in which we have done so. Even in our times of confusion and darkness, the Lord will grant us a few loyal friends who will not give up on us.

Perhaps you are going through a messy time in your life right now. The enemy is tempting you to call it quits, and you don’t have many who are encouraging you to stay. Don’t give in. Don’t allow a momentary mess to define your life. You can make it through today’s mess.

Jefferson Vann

Extended Scripture: 2 Samuel 13–16 (NET)