2 Samuel 10
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2 Samuel 10:17-19, When David was told of this, he gathered all Israel, crossed the Jordan and went to Helam. The Arameans formed their battle lines to meet David and fought against him. But they fled before Israel, and David killed seven hundred of their charioteers and forty thousand of their foot soldiers.[a] He also struck down Shobak the commander of their army, and he died there. When all the kings who were vassals of Hadadezer saw that they had been routed by Israel, they made peace with the Israelites and became subject to them.
In an attempt to show kindness and build alliances, David sends a delegation to the new king of the Ammonites. David had a good relationship with the king’s father and wanted to continue that relationship with the king. But the new king was not so wise. His advisors tell him that this delegation from Israel may actually be spies, sizing up the area for a conquest. The king takes their advice to heart, or possibly wants to exert his independence from the more powerful Israel, so he humiliates the men in the delegation by sending them home with half a beard and half-naked. In those days, this was basically a declaration of war.
The Ammonites expected Israel to respond militarily so they hire mercenaries, the Arameans, to help them fight. But neither group is a match for the army of Israel, led by Joab. Joab is strategic and brave, leading the men to victory despite formidable odds. In the end, the Ammonites plan backfired. Israel becomes the strongest nation in the area, politically, militarily, and economically. With God on their side, they cannot be stopped.
Let’s pray…God of the Ages, You are almighty and powerful. Help us remember that you have acted throughout history, involving yourself in the lives of your people, protecting them, guiding them, and directing their paths. We pray that you do the same for us. Lord, we need you. Give us your wisdom and the courage to follow your ways. We pray all of this in the name of Jesus, Amen.