In this narrative, we see this real life example of how God, in His sovereign purposes, allows a tragic event to unfold within the realm of King David: a coup conspired by his own son, Absalom. This situation reveals to us the depravity of sin, and our propensity to sin, but ultimately God's patience and long-suffering through it all.

There are themes running through this narrative that we need to consider:
- The divine authority of God (God’s sovereignty)
- His patient and intentional mercy and grace
- The cultivation of true gospel character
- The development of humble, sacrificial and devoted worshippers.

God, through the canon of scripture, shows us both what we should, and shouldn’t do. Our instruction comes from Him by His Word.