King David was at a low point in his life. His son Absalom has been stealing the people's heart and wanted to be king. King David loved Absalom and did not take any aggressive steps in dealing with Absalom. At one point, Shimei, someone from former king Saul's clan cursed David as he passed by. He even cast stones at David. We must understand that everyone knew God had chosen David to be king when the last judge and prophet Samuel anointed David. The people just could not accept who God has chosen. (Shimei believed that Absalom will become king as in chapter 19 of 2 Samuel he comes straight to David for forgiveness after the death of Absalom). Shimei continued his insult at David. One of David's fighting man Abishai who had fought many battles and was ready to kill Shimei. Many of us would be like Abishai but David's response was extraordinary. Unlike the way he wanted to deal with Nabal when Nabal showed him no respect, David responded with these words. 2 Samuel 16:10, 12 And the king said, What have I to do with you, ye sons of Zeruiah? so let him curse because the Lord hath said unto him, curse David. Who shall then say, Wherefore hast thou done so? It may be that the Lord will look on mine affliction and that the Lord will requite me good for his cursing this day. David left the matter to the Lord. He was hoping God may show mercy on him when others gave him a hard time. This was later recorded in Proverbs 24:17-20 17Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth: 18Lest the LORD see it, and it displease him, and he turn away his wrath from him. 19Fret not thyself because of evil men, neither be thou envious at the wicked; 20For there shall be no reward to the evil man; the candle of the wicked shall be put out.

May we learn to receive unkind words humbly and may the Lord hears and show mercy on us.