2 Samuel 16:12
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Notice how David doesn't demand immediate justice but rather entrusts the outcome to God's discerning eye, believing the LORD can see the truth of his situation and bring about good even from Shimei's wicked words. It's a powerful statement of faith, recognizing that God's perspective is far greater than any human offense.
It may be that the LORD will look on the wrong done to me, and that the LORD will repay me with good for his cursing today.”
English Standard Version (ESV)
David is fleeing Jerusalem because his own son, Absalom, has betrayed him and is trying to take the throne. As David crosses the Jordan River, Shimei, a man from Saul's family, comes out and curses David, throwing stones at him and his men. David's men are furious and want to retaliate, but David, remembering that God allowed this situation, chooses to endure the insult, believing God will eventually vindicate him.
Have you ever felt deeply wronged, with no one to champion your cause? David certainly did. This verse reveals a profound trust in God’s attention.
The Weight of Wrongdoing
David is fleeing from his own son, Absalom, and is being cursed by Shimei. It's a moment of intense humiliation and injustice. David’s words aren't about seeking revenge or denying the pain. Instead, they express a deep conviction that God sees the wrong.
God's Compassionate Gaze
Notice the phrase "the LORD will look on the wrong done to me." This isn't a detached, clinical observation. It speaks of God’s personal awareness and empathy. He doesn't just see events; He sees the impact of those events on His people. He notices our suffering, our pain, and the injustice we face.
In the face of bitter curses, David holds onto an astonishing hope. What's the source of this seemingly impossible optimism?
The Ultimate Reversal
David doesn't just hope God sees the wrong; he believes God will respond to it with good. The Hebrew word for "repay" here carries the sense of a just settlement or restoration. David is essentially saying, 'God will set this right.' He trusts that God's ultimate action won't be condemnation but kindness, not vengeance but blessing.
God's Sovereign Kindness
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This isn't about David earning good, but about God’s sovereign choice to act. Despite the present reality of Shimei's curses, David looks forward to a future where God turns the situation around and blesses him. This reflects God's character – His ability and desire to bring good out of evil, even when circumstances seem overwhelmingly negative.
Understand the original words
avon · Hebrew Noun
An act or state that is morally wrong, wicked, or an injury inflicted upon someone; it often carries the weight of injustice or oppression.
tob · Hebrew Adjective/Noun
A term describing the manifestation of God's favor or His response to those who suffer injustice; it is often connected to the theological belief that God is a rewarder of those who endure trials.
This verse comes from a moment of profound personal crisis for King David, highlighting his reliance on God's justice even when facing intense personal betrayal and public humiliation from his own son and subjects.
c. 1000 BC
David's Reign Begins
David is anointed king of Israel, ushering in a golden age of unity and expansion for the nation.
c. 992 BC
Absalom's Rebellion Initiated
Absalom, David's son, begins a calculated and successful conspiracy to usurp the throne, gaining the people's favor.
c. 986 BC
Absalom Seizes Jerusalem
Absalom's rebellion gains momentum, forcing David and his loyal followers to flee Jerusalem.
c. 986 BC— this verse
David Flees Jerusalem
David flees his capital in disgrace, heartbroken by his own son's betrayal and the apparent loss of his kingdom.
c. 986 BC
Shimei Curses David
As David flees, Shimei, a relative of King Saul, throws stones and curses David, calling him a bloody man.
c. 985 BC
Absalom's Defeat and Death
Absalom's rebellion is crushed by David's forces, and Absalom himself is killed, despite David's orders to spare him.
This Psalm echoes the sentiment of David, acknowledging his suffering and entrusting the outcome to God, even when his enemies are rejoicing.
Lamentations 3:38-39This passage powerfully declares that suffering and calamity come from God, but importantly, that no one should complain when they are being disciplined for their sins.
Romans 12:19This New Testament passage directly addresses believers, urging them not to take revenge but to leave room for God's wrath, reflecting David's trust in divine justice.
1 Peter 2:20-23This passage offers guidance for suffering unjustly, pointing to Christ's example of not retaliating but entrusting Himself to God, mirroring David's posture in 2 Samuel 16.
Notice how David doesn't demand immediate justice but rather entrusts the outcome to God's discerning eye, believing the LORD can see the truth of his situation and bring about good even from Shimei's wicked words. It's a powerful statement of faith, recognizing that God's perspective is far greater than any human offense.
David is fleeing Jerusalem because his own son, Absalom, has betrayed him and is trying to take the throne. As David crosses the Jordan River, Shimei, a man from Saul's family, comes out and curses David, throwing stones at him and his men. David's men are furious and want to retaliate, but David, remembering that God allowed this situation, chooses to endure the insult, believing God will eventually vindicate him.
David is fleeing Jerusalem because his own son, Absalom, has betrayed him and is trying to take the throne. As David crosses the Jordan River, Shimei, a man from Saul's family, comes out and curses David, throwing stones at him and his men. David's men are furious and want to retaliate, but David, remembering that God allowed this situation, chooses to endure the insult, believing God will eventually vindicate him.
"It may be that the LORD will look on the wrong done to me, and that the LORD will repay me with good for his cursing today.”" — Notice how David doesn't demand immediate justice but rather entrusts the outcome to God's discerning eye, believing the LORD can see the truth of his situation and bring about good even from Shimei'…
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Last reviewed October 2026
