THEOSISEphraem the Syrian
During the time when David was fleeing from his son Absalom, did not Shimei come out to confront him and speak ill of King David in front of all his followers? He chose not to voice his criticisms in private, as he might have feared that others would perceive him as noble for bearing the offense quietly. Not only did he speak ill, but he also cursed and threw stones at the king. One of David’s loyal companions questioned, ‘Why should this worthless man curse my lord the king? I will go and remove his head.’ However, the king replied, ‘What concern is it of yours, O sons of Zeruiah? Let him curse; for the Lord has commanded him to do so.
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Who then can question why he acts this way?’ Furthermore, David added, ‘The Lord will see my affliction and will restore good to me for his curse on this day’ (2 Samuel 16:12). Observe, beloved, how the righteous serve the Lord in humility. If David, as a king and prophet, demonstrated such earnestness and humility, what should we, who are poor and wretched, strive to reflect? Additionally, consider David's mercy toward Saul. Thus, dear brethren, let us be generous by supporting one another, fulfilling Galatians 6:2. What soldier, upon seeing a comrade taken captive by the enemy, does not endeavor to rescue him from his captors? If he fails to do so, his heart breaks for his fallen brother. How much more ought we to offer ourselves for one another! For our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ proclaimed, ‘Greater love has no one than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends’ (John 15:13). To Him be glory forever! Amen.