2 Samuel 21: Three Year Famine in Israel

Introduction: The book of 2 Samuel 21 is filled with profound wisdom and insights that offer lessons applicable even in our contemporary society. This is a chapter that delves deep into the elements of justice, faith, commitment, and the importance of honoring covenants. In the following outline, we examine 2 Samuel 21 and explore its wisdom in detail through thoughtful analysis and cross-references.

I. Justice and Faith during Famine (2 Samuel 21:1-6)
The chapter begins with a severe famine in David’s reign, which lasted for three years. David inquires of the Lord, who reveals that the famine was a result of Saul’s bloodguilt for killing the Gibeonites. Here, we see the justice of God in play, who ensures that the unrighteous deeds do not go unpunished. This reflects the wisdom in Numbers 32:23, “you may be sure that your sin will find you out.” Moreover, this section also highlights David’s faith in God as he seeks divine guidance during a crisis, echoing Proverbs 3:5-6, which instructs us to trust in the Lord and lean not on our own understanding.

II. The Importance of Honoring Covenants (2 Samuel 21:2-6)
David restores justice by honoring Israel’s broken covenant with the Gibeonites. The covenant, initially made by Joshua (Joshua 9:15), was violated by Saul. Here, David exhibits wisdom by recognizing the necessity of upholding covenants, not only as a religious duty but also as a moral responsibility. This aligns with Matthew 5:37, that our ‘Yes’ should mean ‘Yes,’ and our ‘No’ should mean ‘No,’ indicating the importance of keeping our promises.

III. Commitment to Duty and the Sanctity of Life (2 Samuel 21:10-14)
The story of Rizpah, who guarded the bodies of her sons from predatory birds and animals, is a powerful testament to commitment and the sanctity of life. Her actions moved David to give the deceased a proper burial, underlining the respect for human dignity even in death. This correlates with the verses in Ecclesiastes 3:20 and Genesis 3:19, which remind us of our mortal nature and the respect we should accord to the cycle of life and death.

IV. Heroic Acts and the Power of Unity (2 Samuel 21:15-22)
The last section narrates the heroic acts of David’s men who killed four descendants of the giant in Gath. This symbolizes the power of unity and mutual support in overcoming adversities, which reinforces the wisdom of Ecclesiastes 4:12, “A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” Moreover, it also reflects 1 Corinthians 12:26, “If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together.”

Conclusion: 2 Samuel 21 is a profound chapter that showcases the wisdom of justice, faith, honoring covenants, commitment to duty, respect for life, and the power of unity. It guides us to seek divine guidance during adversities, uphold our promises, respect the sanctity of life, and stand together in the face of challenges. Just like David who reigned over Israel with justice and righteousness, we are called to apply these principles in our lives, ultimately manifesting the wisdom encapsulated in 2 Samuel 21. As we journey through life, the wisdom of these scriptures will serve as a constant guide, shaping our actions and decisions in the light of God’s word.