What more can David say to you? You have given your servant special recognition, O Lord God!

You made Israel your very own people for all time. You, O Lord, became their God.

If I had acted at risk of my own life – and nothing is hidden from the king! – you would have abandoned me.”

Then the king said to Amasa, “Call the men of Judah together for me in three days, and you be present here with them too.”

In the past, when Saul was our king, you were the real leader in Israel. The Lord said to you, ‘You will shepherd my people Israel; you will rule over Israel.’”

David said to him, “Don’t be afraid, because I will certainly extend kindness to you for the sake of Jonathan your father. You will be a regular guest at my table.”

How could I ever be rid of my humiliation? And you would be considered one of the fools in Israel! Just speak to the king, for he will not withhold me from you.”