1 Chronicles 19:1 - Meaning and Application

Here we may notice, first, that it is proper for good people to be friendly with their neighbors, and especially to be thankful. David wanted to show respect to Hanun because Hanun lived near him. Religion teaches us to be courteous and kind to everyone, to honor all people, and to be ready to do acts of kindness for those around us. A difference in religion should not stand in the way of this.

But David also remembered the kindness that Hanun’s father had once shown him. Those who have received kindness should return it as they have the chance and the means. If a kindness was shown by the parents, it should be returned to their children after the parents are gone.

Second, as the old proverb says, wickedness comes from wicked people (Sa1 24:13). A worthless person speaks worthlessly, and evil people use evil plans to destroy honest people with lies (Isa 32:6, Isa 32:7). People who are base and mean are often suspicious and wrongly assume evil in others without cause. Hanun’s servant suggested that David’s messengers had come as spies, as if such a great king as David needed to use such a shameful trick. If David had wanted to attack the Ammonites, he could have done it openly and had no need for deceit. It was also foolish to think that a man of David’s character would do such a base thing. Yet Hanun listened to this suggestion and, against the law of nations, treated David’s messengers very cruelly.

Third, masters should protect their servants, and with great tenderness care for them if they suffer loss or harm while serving. David did this for his messengers (Ch1 19:5). Christ will do this for his ministers, and all masters should likewise give their servants what is just and fair.