1 Chronicles 20 Commentary
In the spring, at the time when kings go off to war, and when David decides to remain in Jerusalem, you guess this is David’s moment of moral failure with Bathsheba. But Chronicles isn’t going to repeat the story we all know. Instead, the focus is on two important victories.
The first victory is against Ammon. The Ammonites had a very long history of animosity against Israel. During the time of Saul, Nahash had so decimated the units of Israel that the LORD intervened. This was yet another moment when the LORD intervened, and Israel was safe once again.
The Philistines were a constant problem for Israel. They ruled over Israel during the days of Samson. They continued to oppress Israel throughout the days of King Saul. In fact, both Samson and Saul died because of Philistine aggression.
We, therefore, receive the news of multiple victories against the Philistines with gladness and peace of heart. The oppressor has been subdued. How the church prays for such times! Let not the story of the Bible be one of the oppressed, by the oppressed, and for the oppressed. These chapters in the middle of Chronicles bring relief
The LORD’s generosity underlines the core message of the chapter.
In the background of these victories, and back at the palace (probably being bored for lack of “serious wars”), David sins – wickedness in the presence of increased blessings!
Then you know the blessing of righteousness is different from a physical blessing!
These lines, therefore, celebrate the generosity of the LORD, not to a great holiness, but to a people with shaky faith!
More resources visit http://www.lovingscripture.com
LOVING SCRIPTURE 