Chronological Reading Plan for May 8, Sam 8-9, 1 Chron 18

Today's readings are 2 Sam 8-9 and 1 Chron 18. Tomorrow's are Psalms 50, 53, 60, 75. 

The events in 2 Sam 8 are not in chronological order, but are a compiled list of victories given David by God. The unusual means of determining which Moabite soldiers are executed in vs 2 actually has an explanation. Most defeated armies back in that time were executed so as not to pose a threat to the victor. Those that were allowed to live were frequently mutilated to the point that they could no longer fight or they were sold into slavery.  In some cases, they were thrown in prison and tortured for the rest of their days. David, going contrary to what was then current military strategy and wisdom, spares one third of the Moabite army by a random means of choosing. Mercy is given where mercy is neither expected nor due, a picture of God's sovereign grace. 

Under David's rule, Judah is becoming rich and powerful. We hear, frequently that David has victory everywhere he goes. The bad fortunes and poor leadership of Saul have been reversed and God's people redeemed. David forms a cabinet of wise and powerful men and priests. In 2 Sam 9, David makes good on his vow to Jonathan and provides for Mephibosheth.  

1 Chron 18, written about 100 years after the time of David, to a people who were displaced and now going home, looks back on the same period of time as 2 Samuel, documenting God's goodness prior to captivity by the Syrians and Babylonians. It's a reminder to the Hebrews of from where they've come and the rich heritage to which they are returning. 

This is a good lesson to learn. Israel had it good under David. Then they went into captivity but God was blessing them in the good and the bad, using both to bring them to where HE wants them to be.