The book of 2nd Samuel continues the narrative of one of the most pivotal characters in Scripture- David, the son of Jesse, the man who had a heart like God. David is a man of faith and courage, seeking God's glory and defending God's reputation. God establishes him as the man who will lead His people, despite years of opposition, both foreign and domestic. Through David, God establishes the kingdom of Israel as the dominant power in the region, showing them to be His treasured possession. However, David is still just a man. His early years are full of uncompromising faith and God-empowered victory. Yet as the years drag on the reader can see his endurance waning. David never denies the faith or turns from worshipping the Lord, to his credit, but his failures become more evident in the latter part of his life as the pressures and temptations of ruling both his own family and the nation are pressed in around him. One can likely bring to mind pastors or other spiritual leaders that began their ministry with zeal and obedience only to wane somewhat under the pressures of leadership. However, God's faithfulness is evident, both in David's life and the rest of His children, as He continues to work through David and Israel to show Himself to His people.
Like 1st Samuel and other historical books, 2nd Samuel reads like an epic adventure. A king is crowned, a civil war commences, a nation subdues its' neighbors militarily as it establishes a kingdom, and the long reign of a monarch is beset by traitors within his own family and friends. Action, adventure, drama, betrayal, lust, greed, retribution and loyalty are all found within the pages of 2nd Samuel. And some say reading the Bible is boring!
The reader continues to see God's hand at work with His people. Prophecies spoken hundreds of years before find a fulfillment in this book as God remains true to His word. New promises are given by the Lord which find their ultimate fulfillment in Christ, the King of kings and Lord of lords. Practical examples of disobedience, sin, repentance and forgiveness are given in this book, as well as good examples of trust and obedience. Read with an understanding heart, 2nd Samuel will encourage, direct, build trust in the Lord and grant grace to any student, as they continue in their walk with the Lord.

"The Lord is my Rock, and my fortress and my deliverer, the God of my strength in whom I will trust, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold and my refuge; my Savior, you save me from violence. I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised, so shall I be saved from my enemies (2 Samuel 22:2-4)."