GOD'S GRACE IN THE MIDST OF REJECTION

TITLE: GOD'S GRACE IN THE MIDST OF REJECTION

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text:
2 Samuel 9:3-5 (NKJV) – "Then the king said, 'Is there not still someone of the house of Saul, to whom I may show the kindness of God?' And Ziba said to the king, 'There is still a son of Jonathan, who is lame in his feet.' So the king said to him, 'Where is he?' And Ziba said to the king, 'Indeed he is in the house of Machir the son of Ammiel, in Lo Debar.' Then King David sent and brought him out of the house of Machir, the son of Ammiel, from Lo Debar."

Supporting Texts:
Psalm 27:10 (NKJV) – "When my father and my mother forsake me, Then the Lord will take care of me."
Ephesians 2:8-9 (NKJV) – "For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast."

INTRODUCTION:
In the midst of conflict and political upheaval, David, the newly anointed king of Israel, sought to extend kindness to any surviving member of Saul’s household, particularly for the sake of his beloved friend Jonathan. This act of kindness reveals the nature of God’s grace, extending love and acceptance to those who may feel rejected or unworthy. Mephibosheth, Jonathan's son, represents those who feel overlooked and powerless but are recipients of God's grace.

1. THE SEARCH FOR KINDNESS
David's desire to show kindness reflects the heart of God.

a) Recognising the Need for Kindness: David’s inquiry about Saul’s household indicates his willingness to seek out the broken (2 Samuel 9:1).

b) A Heart of Compassion: David exemplified God's heart, desiring to bless rather than condemn (James 2:13).

c) The Importance of Generosity: Our acts of kindness can change lives; they should reflect God’s love (Proverbs 11:25).

d) Seeking the Outcasts: God’s grace often reaches those who feel abandoned or in despair (Luke 14:21).

Biblical Example:
Jesus’ interaction with the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4) illustrates how He sought out the outcasts and offered them grace.

2. IDENTIFYING MEPHIBOSHETH
Mephibosheth's situation highlights the impact of brokenness.

a) The Lame Son of Jonathan: Mephibosheth lived in Lo Debar, a place of desolation, reflecting his brokenness (2 Samuel 9:3).

b) His Identity in Fear: Living in fear of being hunted by David, he embodied the stigma of his lineage (2 Samuel 4:4).

c) Feeling Unworthy: Mephibosheth viewed himself as a dead dog, expressing his feelings of worthlessness (2 Samuel 9:8).

d) Physical and Spiritual Lameness: His physical condition symbolizes spiritual barrenness many face (Hebrews 12:13).

Biblical Example:
The paralytic man lowered through the roof (Mark 2:1-12) illustrates how those in brokenness seek healing and restoration.

3. THE INVITATION TO THE KING'S TABLE
David’s invitation to Mephibosheth is a profound act of grace.

a) God's Grace is Unconditional: David didn’t ask for merit; he sought to show kindness based on his covenant with Jonathan (2 Samuel 9:7).

b) From Despair to Dignity: Mephibosheth was summoned from Lo Debar to dine at the king's table (2 Samuel 9:5-7).

c) A Place of Acceptance: The king’s table represents God’s acceptance and grace, regardless of our past (Ephesians 1:6).

d) Living as Heirs: Believers are invited to partake in God’s blessings as His adopted children (Romans 8:17).

Biblical Example:
The prodigal son’s return (Luke 15:20-24) demonstrates the loving acceptance and restoration awaiting those who come to God.

4. THE LEGACY OF GRACE
Mephibosheth’s story teaches us about the lasting impact of grace.

a) Receiving Blessings: Despite his limitations, Mephibosheth enjoyed the benefits of the king's generosity (2 Samuel 9:10).

b) Sharing the Grace: God’s grace compels us to extend love to others, regardless of their background (2 Corinthians 5:18-19).

c) Building a Legacy of Kindness: Acts of kindness create a ripple effect, impacting generations (Proverbs 22:1).

d) Faithful Stewardship: We are called to manage the grace and blessings given to us (1 Peter 4:10).

Biblical Example:
The story of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-37) exemplifies the legacy of grace through acts of kindness and compassion.

CONCLUSION:
David’s act of kindness toward Mephibosheth reminds us that God seeks to extend His grace to the broken and marginalized. No matter our past or present circumstances, we are invited to experience His love and acceptance. Like Mephibosheth, we can find our identity and dignity at the king’s table, where grace abounds. Let us embrace this grace and share it with others, creating a legacy of kindness.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, help me recognise those in need of kindness around me!

2. I receive Your grace to overcome feelings of unworthiness!

3. May I always seek to show compassion to others, as David did!

4. I declare that every area of brokenness in my life is healed!

5. Thank You, Lord, for inviting me to Your table of grace!

6. Help me to extend grace to those who feel rejected!

7. I pray for a heart that reflects Your love and compassion!

8. May my actions be a testament to Your kindness!

9. Lord, let my legacy be one of grace and generosity!

10. I thank You for making me an heir of Your promises!

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:

1. You are being lifted from your place of despair to dine at the King’s table!

2. God’s grace is healing every area of your brokenness!

3. You are accepted and loved, just as you are!

4. The legacy of kindness you create will impact future generations!

5. You will walk in dignity, knowing you are a child of the King!

6. Acts of kindness will follow you and bless those around you!

7. You will be a vessel of grace in your community!

8. Your story will inspire others to seek God’s love!

9. The spirit of rejection is broken over your life!

10. You shall experience the fullness of God’s grace daily!