Between Saul’s relatives, Shimei was an opportunist, but Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan, was unwaveringly loyal to David. He didn’t adorn himself, shave his beard, nor wash his clothes until the day he returned safely. He shared in David’s suffering. He came to David and said that he could not go with the king because he was lame, and his servant refused to help him and instead slandered him. When David ordered him and Ziba to divide the land, Mephibosheth was not bitter. Rather, he was happy just because David had safely returned home. He was loyal at heart as his father Jonathan was. He did not betray David's favor; he stood by David through thick and thin.

Barzillai had provided for David during his stay in Mahanaim. King David was grateful and, wanting to return the favor, asked Barzillai to come to Jerusalem with him. However, Barzillai refused, for he did not serve David to receive anything in return. He served David out of a pure love for the king. So, Barzillai was happy to send David back to Jerusalem again. All Barzillai wanted for himself was to go back to his hometown, lest he should be a burden to David in his old age. He was not an opportunist. We learn from him how to serve others with a heart and mind of Christ for the sake of their wellbeing.
Application: Lord, grant me loyalty to you and to my friends and help me serve others out of pure love.
One Word: Unwavering loyalty and servantship