Turn the Other Cheek

And David said to Abishai and all his servants, “See how my son who came from my own body seeks my life. How much more now may this Benjamite? Let him alone and let him curse; for so the Lord has ordered him. 2 Samuel 16:11 (NKJV)

David is fleeing Jerusalem due to the rebellion of his son Absalom, who seeks to take the throne. As David and his followers escape, they encounter Shimei, who curses David and throws stones at him. This moment is significant as it highlights David's vulnerability and the betrayal he feels from his own son, contrasting it with the insults from Shimei, a member of the rival house of Saul. David stopped Abishai from killing Shimei because he believed that Shimei's cursing was a divine act, not an act of rebellion. His refusal to kill Shimei was a demonstration of his faith and submission to God's sovereignty. David's decision to spare Shimei's life was a reflection of his humility and willingness to accept God's will, even when it involved personal suffering.

David's refusal to kill Shimei is a reflection of Jesus command to turn the other cheek. In Matthew 5:38–39, Jesus says, “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.” To turn the other cheek means to respond to aggression or insult with restraint and forgiveness rather than retaliation. It encourages a calm and forgiving attitude when faced with hostility or injustice. It implies a dignified response that seeks to overcome evil through nonviolent means, rather than seeking revenge. Turning the other cheek is not about weakness or about allowing abuse. It is about choosing how to respond to conflict rather than accepting harmful behavior.

Choose to follow the example set by David and Jesus and turn the other cheek. When faced with verbal attacks or insults, instead of retaliating, choose to remain calm and composed, defusing tension and preventing further conflict. Choose to overlook small annoyances and focus on the positive aspects of a relationship. In everyday situations, such as disagreements or minor grievances, practice letting go of the need to "get back" at someone. Choose to find nonviolent ways to resist oppression and advocate for change without resorting to violence. When you turn the other cheek, you break the cycle of violence and reflect the love of Christ.