Mephibosheth is one of the most memorable and challenging Bible names to remember. He was the grandson of King Saul and the son of David’s closest friend, Jonathan. Years after his father and grandfather were both killed in battle, David took the throne and asked if any descendants of Saul were still alive. Ultimately he sent for Mephibosheth, who humbly “fell on his face” before the king (2 Samuel 9:6).
David could have humiliated, punished, or even killed Mephibosheth, but instead, he showed him extraordinary kindness by giving him the land that once belonged to Saul and even inviting him to sit at the king’s table (2 Samuel 9:7). While there are several lessons to learn from this incredible interaction, one of the greatest, is to consider the humility of Mephibosheth.
He knew that his life was in the hands of King David. He knew that his future was dependent upon the mercy of his king. Mephibosheth had no illusions of his importance or entitlement; he simply approached the king with complete humility. After David spoke kindly and blessed him, Mephibosheth said, “What is your servant, that you should regard a dead dog like me?” (2 Samuel 9:8).
We all must have that same humility as we approach God. Because God is perfect and because we are not, He could choose to treat us in any number of ways, but He chose to bless us beyond anything we could expect or imagine.
Matt Langfield