Changed Circumstances

Mephibosheth lived in fear and hiding until King David discovered him and brought about a radical change in circumstances.

“Then David said, ‘Is there anyone still left of the house of Saul, so that I could show him kindness for Jonathan’s sake?’ […] Ziba said to the king, ‘There is still a son of Jonathan who is disabled in both feet.’”—2 Samuel 9:1, 3 NASB

Mephibosheth had every reason to be afraid. He was unable to walk and considered himself to be nothing but a “dead dog,” trapped in a hopeless existence (v. 8).

He was forced into hiding as a grandson of Saul, the disgraced former king. He assumed the new king, David, might want to secure his own throne by killing Saul’s relatives, so they couldn’t threaten his rule.

However, Mephibosheth did not know King David. Although David could be a fierce warrior, he was also compassionate (1 Samuel 16:7). David promised his father, Jonathan, to show kindness to his descendants (1 Samuel 20:13–15).

When David remembered this promise, he looked for ways to keep his word. And when Mephibosheth was identified and brought to Jerusalem, David assured him that he had nothing to fear.

Mephibosheth’s life completely turned around because of David’s kindness and integrity.

Many others in the New Testament faced hopeless conditions and came to Jesus, “bringing with them those who were limping, had impaired limbs, were blind, or were unable to speak, and many others, and they laid them down at His feet; and He healed them” (Matthew 15:31). The crowds marveled at how the sick and needy received Jesus’ miraculous help.

Jesus still offers hope for hopeless situations. He cares for you and can heal any disease or open any door. Trust Him to turn around any difficult situations you face.

Reflection Question: Who can you show kindness to today?