2 Samuel 10:19

Servants to Hadarezer. From this statement some idea may be gained of the great power of Hadarezer (Hadadezer). These vassal kings who had been tributary to Hadarezer now transferred their allegiance to David and paid tribute to him. God had predicted through Abraham (Gen. 15:18) and Moses (Deut. 11:24) that the dominion of Israel would extend to the Euphrates, and these prophecies were now fulfilled. Israel had become a mighty power that was to be reckoned with by the nations about. The countries that had arrayed themselves against Israel had been laid low, and the efforts to crush David served only to enhance his power and prestige. No weapon directed against God or the people of God can prosper. There may be periods of trial and difficulty, but from every trial the cause of God will emerge victorious.

The Syrians feared. David was successful because he trusted in more than human power. Ammon had sought help from Syria, but David had sought help from God. The people of God may think at times that they must rely upon worldly power and influence in order successfully to accomplish their tasks. But often they defeat their own purposes by unholy alliances with the world. When Israel first faced the great coalition of power arrayed against it, many hearts were filled with fear, but when the conflict was over, it was the enemies of Israel who had reason for fear. The Syrians discovered that in endeavoring to assist Ammon against Israel they were engaged in a hopeless struggle, battling against God.