2Sa 12:31 | MHM | STEP | v. 31 : David was very harsh to the people of the conquered cities (2 Samuel 12:31 ). He put many of the prisoners to work with saws, iron tools, and axes, and some were even killed by these tools. This punishment was especially severe, even more than what was common in war. David’s actions here showed that he was not as merciful as he had promised to be when he became king ( I will sing of mercy and judgment , Psalm 101:1 ). If David had only punished those who had insulted his ambassadors, it would have been more just. But to be so harsh to all the soldiers was a sign that David’s heart was still hard and had not fully changed through repentance. Those who have received mercy from God should also show mercy to others.

‏ 2 Samuel 12:31

v. 31: David was very harsh to the people of the conquered cities (2 Samuel 12:31 ^a). He put many of the prisoners to work with saws, iron tools, and axes, and some were even killed by these tools. This punishment was especially severe, even more than what was common in war. David’s actions here showed that he was not as merciful as he had promised to be when he became king (I will sing of mercy and judgment, Psalm 101:1 ^b). If David had only punished those who had insulted his ambassadors, it would have been more just. But to be so harsh to all the soldiers was a sign that David’s heart was still hard and had not fully changed through repentance. Those who have received mercy from God should also show mercy to others.