Joab’s remonstrance, though expressed in rough and uncourteous phrase, was perfectly

The royal troops, instead of being welcomed with

just. : had slunk into the city, as if defeated. Im-

mediate steps must be taken to counteract their depression. Private grief must yield to public interests.

The revulsion of loyalty to David began with the ten tribes; but the concurrence of Judah was essential, and it was ‘secured by the mission of the two priests and by the overtures of Amasa. These turned the scale, and Judah welcomed the king with joy, v. 14. What a glimpse all this gives of the change that will be wrought when our Lord comes again—and apparently his advent is very nigh! Previous verdicts will be reversed. Shimeis will sue for mercy. Mephibosheths will be justified and Barzillais rewarded. What are we doing as individuals to secure the return of the King? Compare v. 10 with 2 Peter 3:12. But have we brought the King back to his throne in our own hearts!