⏱️ Estimated Reading Time: 2 min read
Waiting on the Lord’s Timing – 2 Samuel 2:1–11
In this episode of Reading the Bible Daily with Dave, we study 2 Samuel 2:1–11, where David is anointed king over Judah but patiently waits on God’s timing rather than seizing power by force. This passage teaches us about submitting to God’s plan, honoring others during transition, and leading with humility.
Scripture Reading – 2 Samuel 2:1–11 (ESV)
Exposition & Interpretation
David does not rush into power. He first inquires of the Lord and receives clear direction to go to Hebron. Though anointed, he reigns only over Judah, waiting for God’s promise to unfold fully in His timing. Meanwhile, Abner installs Ish-bosheth over the rest of Israel, creating division. David’s response models patient trust and honor, even in transition.
Key Themes
- Submitting to God’s timing
- Seeking the Lord’s will before acting
- Honoring others during transition
- Leading with patience and humility
Biblical Theology Connection
This passage previews the “already–not yet” reality of God’s kingdom. David’s partial reign points ahead to Jesus, whose reign is established but not yet fully consummated until His return.
Church History Insight
John Calvin wrote, “We must not be hasty, lest we outrun God.” David’s example embodies this wisdom—trusting God’s providence over human ambition.
Christ-Centered Application
Just as David waited on God, Jesus submitted fully to the Father’s will, even to the cross. As followers of Christ, we are called to trust God’s timing, resist striving for control, and obey patiently.
Takeaways for Daily Life
- Private: Seek God before making decisions.
- Home: Teach your family to trust God’s providence.
- Church: Support leaders who follow God’s direction rather than self-promotion.
- Work: Wait for the right door instead of rushing opportunity.
- Society: Model humble trust rather than grasping for control.
Scripture Memory Verse
“After this David inquired of the Lord…” – 2 Samuel 2:1a
More Episodes & Resources
- Browse all Reading the Bible Daily episodes
- Check us out on YouTube.
Dave Jenkins is happily married to his wife, Sarah. He is a writer, editor, and speaker living in beautiful Southern Oregon. Dave is a lover of Christ, His people, the Church, and sound theology. He serves as the Executive Director of Servants of Grace Ministries, the Executive Editor of Theology for Life Magazine, the Host and Producer of Equipping You in Grace Podcast, and is a contributor to and producer of Contending for the Word. He is the author of The Word Explored: The Problem of Biblical Illiteracy and What To Do About It (House to House, 2021), The Word Matters: Defending Biblical Authority Against the Spirit of the Age (G3 Press, 2022), and Contentment: The Journey of a Lifetime (Theology for Life, 2024). You can find him on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube, or read his newsletter. Dave loves to spend time with his wife, going to movies, eating at a nice restaurant, or going out for a round of golf with a good friend. He is also a voracious reader, in particular of Reformed theology, and the Puritans. You will often find him when he’s not busy with ministry reading a pile of the latest books from a wide variety of Christian publishers. Dave received his M.A.R. and M.Div through Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary.
