Question

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2 Samuel Lesson 18 (2023)

DAVID, ZIBA, AND SHIMEI

(2 Samuel 16:1-14)

Open it:

1. In what circumstances can it be challenging to tell your friends from your enemies?

Explore it:

1. Read verses 1-4. Who met David with provisions as he was fleeing Jerusalem? What difference of opinion did Ziba report between himself and Mephibosheth? What was David’s response to Ziba’s actions? Why is it not wise to take one person’s version of events at face value without hearing the other side?

2. Read verses 5-8. What did Shimei, son of Gera, do when David’s entourage passed his way? What accusation and curse did Shimei level against David? Why was Shimei so bitter against David?

3. Read verses 9-12. What did Abishai propose to do to Shimei? How did David’s view of the situation differ radically from Abishai’s? What character traits did David exhibit through his reaction to Shimei? What can a person learn from their critics? Would you prefer to vindicate yourself or to be vindicated by God in due time? Why?

4. Read verses 13-14. What did Shimei continue to do as David and his men journeyed on? What did David do when he arrived at his destination?

Apply it:

1. To what critic in your life would you like to learn to respond with silence and faith in God?

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Attachment

• 2 Sam-18q (2022).docx

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