8:1-5 Part of God’s covenant with David included the promise that the Israelites’ enemies would be defeated and would no longer oppress them (7:10, 11). God fulfilled this promise by helping David defeat the opposing nations. Several enemies are listed in this chapter: (1) The Moabites, descendants of Lot who lived east of the Dead Sea. They posed a constant military and religious threat to Israel (Numbers 25:1-3; Judges 3:12-30; 1 Samuel 14:47). David seemed to have a good relationship with the Moabites at one time; David’s great-grandmother Ruth had been from Moab. (2) King Hadadezer of Zobah. His defeat at David’s hands fulfilled God’s promise to Abraham that Israel would control the land as far north as the Euphrates River (Genesis 15:18). (3) The Edomites, descendants of Esau (Genesis 36:1) who were also archenemies of Israel (see 2 Kings 8:20; Jeremiah 49:7-22; Ezekiel 25:12-14; and the note on Genesis 36:9).
8:6 These “gifts” were the tax levied on conquered nations. The tax helped to support Israel’s government and demonstrated that the conquered nation was under Israel’s control.
8:15 David pleased the people (3:36), not because he tried to please them, but because he tried to please God. Often those who try the hardest to become popular never make it. But the praise of people is not that important. Don’t spend your time devising ways to become accepted in the public eye. Instead, strive to do what is right, and both God and people will respect your convictions.
8:15 King David’s reign was characterized by justice. David was fair in interpreting the law, administering punishment with mercy, respecting people’s rights, and recognizing people’s duty toward God. Is it any wonder that almost everyone trusted and followed David? Why was it good for David to pursue justice? (1) It was God’s command (Deuteronomy 16:18-20) and in keeping with his character (Deuteronomy 32:4). God’s laws were meant to establish a just society. (2) It was in the nation’s best interest because times would arise when each individual would need justice. Justice should characterize the way you relate to people. Make sure you are fair in the way you treat them.