(13) В¶ And there came a messenger to David, saying, The hearts of the men of Israel are after Absalom. (14) And David said unto all his servants that were with him at Jerusalem, Arise, and let us flee; for we shall not else escape from Absalom: make speed to depart, lest he overtake us suddenly, and bring evil upon us, and smite the city with the edge of the sword.
David was a man of great personal bravery, wherefore then did he wish to flee? No doubt he saw the hand of the Lord in the affliction. God had said, I will raise up evil out of thine own house. 2 Samuel 12:11. Reader! that affliction which comes immediately from the Lord, and as the correction of sin, throws down self-confidence, and makes men cowards. It is sweet to see the hand of him that corrects however, because as his name is, so is his mercy.