23 APRIL (PREACHED 23 APRIL 1775)
Although …
‘Although my house be not so with God; yet he hath made with me an everlasting covenant, ordered in all things, and sure: for this is all my salvation, and all my desire, although he make it not to grow.’ 2 Samuel 23:5
SUGGESTED FURTHER READING: 2 Samuel 23:1–5
The beginning of this chapter is commended to our notice as the last words of David—the last words of a man of eminent spirituality, so as to receive the title of ‘the man after God’s own heart’ [Acts 13:22], and of one who had been long and variously exercised. He had been in troubles from his youth—sometimes so pressed that he almost despaired—yet always seasonably supported. In this verse he is speaking of the two points which, respecting his personal concern, lay nearest his heart—his family and his soul. The truths he here contemplates and the manner of his expression afford room for more discourses than one. At present, and by way of introduction to what I may offer hereafter from the passage, I shall endeavour to give you a brief exposition upon the word and to raise a few observations for general use. May the Lord command his blessing.
Although. From this word and the case referred, compared with the general case of Scripture, I would observe that the people of God, however situated or circumstanced, have each their trials. David was a child, a prophet, of God. He was a warrior and a king. He had great riches and great honours. But still he had an ‘although’.
Let this encourage some. Why do you complain as though none were exercised like yourself (1 Peter 5:9)? Let it teach others what to expect. You may possibly for a little while think yourselves well in all points—but whether believers or not, you will find a cross. Pray that trials may be sanctified. Escape them you cannot.
FOR MEDITATION: ‘Although he was a son, he learned obedience from what he suffered, and, once made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him’ (Hebrews 5:8–9, NIV).
SERMON SERIES: 2 SAMUEL 23:5, NO. 1 [1/4]
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