5.-2 Samuel 15

Observe the exceeding grace of David in the whole scene connected with Absalom’s rebellion. He would flee to save the people, and to avoid the shedding of blood. He would send back Ittai the Gittite, who will not go, and who is, indeed, the expression of that deep reverent affection which never skews itself more than when its object is in distress. He will not check Shimei, though cursing him and following them all the way with stones. He sends back the ark, too, and Zadok, even now taking refuge as he was wont in the tender-mercy of his God. If he should find favor in His sight, he would bring David back to see both it and his habitation; but if not, if He were to say I have no delight in thee,-well, there he was, entirely at His disposal. O, the exquisite grace of this man of God, never more manifest than at this moment. It is entire up-giving to His mercy. He owned it was God’s hand in displeasure, but whilst owning the hand he takes refuge in His heart.
How different with Ahithophel! When his glory was touched, by Absalom’s rejecting his counsel; he went and hanged himself. He could not outlive his reputation. But David can, for he knew God. Lovely specimen of "subjection to the Father of Spirits."