THE RESTORATION OF THE KING
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: 2 Samuel 19:1-43
Supporting Texts: Joel 2:25-27, Psalm 30:5, Isaiah 61:7, Jeremiah 30:17-19, Romans 8:28
INTRODUCTION:
After the defeat and death of Absalom, David mourned deeply. His grief was so overwhelming that it cast a shadow over Israel’s hard-won victory. But there comes a time when mourning must give way to movement. In 2 Samuel 19, we see the gradual restoration of David back to the throne, not only physically, but emotionally, relationally, and politically.
David’s return to Jerusalem was not just about reclaiming a throne—it was about healing a wounded kingdom, rebuilding broken relationships, and restoring spiritual leadership. Through this process, God shows us how He brings restoration after loss, and how the heart of a true leader responds with grace, wisdom, and humility.
This chapter is a divine encouragement that no matter what rebellion, loss, or betrayal has occurred, God is still able to restore His anointed. Restoration often comes with tests—tests of forgiveness, discernment, and mercy. But those who follow God’s leading will rise again, stronger and wiser.
1. RESTORATION BEGINS WITH ENCOURAGEMENT, NOT CONDEMNATION
Joab rebuked David’s excessive grief, pushing him to return to his role as king.
a) “You have covered with shame the faces of all your servants…” (2 Samuel 19:5)
Joab reminded David that leadership must rise even in grief.
b) There is a time to mourn, and a time to move forward with purpose
David had to choose national unity over personal sorrow.
c) Restoration begins when we regain focus on God’s bigger picture
Staying stuck in the past delays healing for others.
d) Leaders must allow God’s strength to lift them from grief to responsibility
Our calling requires us to rise, even when our hearts are heavy.
Biblical Example: Joshua was told to arise after Moses' death (Joshua 1:1–2).
2. TRUE LEADERSHIP SEEKS RECONCILIATION, NOT RETALIATION
David reached out to restore unity among the tribes of Israel.
a) “Why are you the last to bring the king back…?” (2 Samuel 19:11)
David sent messages of peace to the elders of Judah.
b) A restored leader must prioritise peace over pride
Unity is more important than personal justification.
c) Restoration is not only a divine act—it must be followed by human initiative
David chose to pursue reconciliation with his people.
d) Forgiveness and humility are marks of true spiritual maturity
David did not demand loyalty—he appealed for it.
Biblical Example: Joseph reconciled with his brothers despite their betrayal (Genesis 45:4-8).
3. RESTORATION REQUIRES DISCERNMENT IN HANDLING PEOPLE
Several people approached David on his return—each with different motives.
a) Shimei, who once cursed David, came begging for mercy (2 Samuel 19:16-20)
David extended forgiveness instead of executing judgment.
b) Mephibosheth explained his absence, and David discerned his loyalty (2 Samuel 19:24-30)
David handled the conflicting reports between him and Ziba with fairness.
c) Restoration is not just about regaining a throne—it’s about healing hearts and restoring justice
A leader must listen with spiritual discernment, not just political ears.
d) Leaders must guard their hearts from bitterness to lead with clarity and fairness
David had every reason to be suspicious, but he chose mercy.
Biblical Example: Solomon wisely judged the case of the two women over a child (1 Kings 3:16-28).
4. GRACE IN RESTORATION ATTRACTS NEW LOYALTIES
Barzillai, the elderly man who helped David in exile, was honoured on his return.
a) “Come over with me… I will provide for you” (2 Samuel 19:33)
David wanted to reward loyalty with honour.
b) True restoration involves remembering those who stood with you in your lowest moments
Gratitude sustains relationships in leadership.
c) Even when people decline recognition, honouring them publicly strengthens morale and loyalty
Barzillai's humility did not stop David from blessing his household.
d) Restoration is not complete until honour is given where honour is due
Gracious leaders multiply loyalty through kindness.
Biblical Example: Mordecai was honoured for his past faithfulness to the king (Esther 6:1-11).
5. RESTORATION OF POSITION DOES NOT CANCEL THE NEED FOR WISDOM
Even in restoration, tensions remained among Israel and Judah.
a) “We have ten shares in the king… why then did you despise us?” (2 Samuel 19:43)
Disputes rose among the tribes over who had more claim to David.
b) Leadership restoration brings its own new set of challenges
David had to manage rising tribal tensions with patience.
c) Restoration requires continued wisdom, not complacency
The same God who restored you must guide your next steps.
d) God restores not just to a position but into responsibility
David had to maintain peace while asserting authority.
Biblical Example: Nehemiah restored the walls of Jerusalem but continued to lead with vigilance (Nehemiah 6:1-9).
CONCLUSION:
2 Samuel 19 reveals the tender yet weighty journey of restoring a fallen or wounded leader. David’s return to Jerusalem was not just political—it was spiritual, emotional, and relational. He had to rise from mourning, reconcile enemies, reward allies, and wisely handle sensitive matters.
Restoration is God’s work, but it must be followed by human humility, spiritual wisdom, and heartfelt gratitude. Even when the throne is restored, the true test lies in how the restored king governs, forgives, and unites the people once more.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Father, restore everything in my life that has been lost through sorrow, betrayal, or rebellion.
2. Lord, give me a heart that chooses reconciliation over revenge in times of restoration.
3. Grant me wisdom to handle people with grace, justice, and spiritual discernment.
4. Help me to rise from every season of mourning and take my place in divine assignment.
5. Lord, bless and honour those who stood with me in my lowest seasons and multiply their reward.
