What does 2 Samuel 15:26 Mean?

Context Summary

Outside the story of our Lord, the Bible records nothing more admirable than David's behavior as he passed through this thicket of thorns. He never appeared to better advantage than during those awful days. Tribulation had wrought patience, and patience experience, and experience hope, and his hope was destined not to be ashamed. The psalms in which he embalms these experiences are the heritage of the saints. Among them are Psalms 3:1-8; Psalms 4:1-8; Psalms 26:1-12; Psalms 27:1-14; Psalms 28:1-9, and probably 62. The procession reminds us of another-only that was still more sorrowful-led by his Son and Lord, Matthew 26:1-75.

Adversity sifts out the false from the true, the spurious from the genuine. The trusted counselor turns traitor, 2 Samuel 15:31; but against this must be set the loyalty of Zadok and Abiathar, and the devotion of Hushai. There are indications that Bathsheba was Ahithophel's granddaughter. This would explain why Absalom sent for him, why he was so bitter, and why he committed suicide. The Cross has been the touchstone of trial to myriads! Have you been true to your exiled King? Let us go forth to Him without the camp, bearing his reproach! Hebrews 13:13. [source]

Chapter Summary: 2 Samuel 15

¹  Absalom, by fair speeches and courtesies, steals the hearts of Israel
⁷  By pretense of a vow, he obtains leave to go to Hebron
¹⁰  He makes there a great conspiracy
¹³  David upon the news flees from Jerusalem
¹⁹  Ittai will leave him
²⁴  Zadok and Abiathar are sent back with the ark
³⁰  David and his company go up mount Olivet weeping,
³¹  He curses Ahithophel's counsel
³²  Hushai is sent back with instructions