But as for me, when they were sick, my clothing was sackcloth: I humbled my soul with fasting; and my prayer returned into mine own bosom.
I behaved myself as though he had been my friend or brother: I bowed down heavily, as one that mourneth for his mother.
Psalm 35:13-14
Though David was a mighty warrior, he was not consumed with the hatred and wrath that is characteristic of tyrants. When met with adversity he humbled himself and sought the will of the Lord rather than hastily resorting to brute force.
David mourned the state of his enemies, he pitied them, and grieved them, knowing that the judgement of God was upon them. He showed them the same mercy that he would’ve shown to a friend or a relative.
He traded his battle dress for sackcloth, he put aside the hunger pangs of his own belly, and with great pains he prayed to the Lord for his enemies.
By world standards David's actions might be viewed as weak and capitulating, but if we read the text in light of our Creator, then we see this is an example of strength being derived from God above.
The Lord desires mercy and restraint at every opportunity, including on the battlefield:
Mercy and truth preserve the king: and his throne is upholden by mercy.
Proverbs 20:28
For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.
Hosea 6:6
Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.
Matthew 5:7
Vicious retaliation and mercilessness are the methods of despots, but a godly king knows that his strength is in the right hand of the Lord.
Amen.
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