2 Samuel 16:8

In whose stead. These words explain the real reason for Shimei’s hatred and virulence. He was bitter because the crown of Israel had been taken from the house of Saul and given to the house of David. But it was the Lord, not David, who rejected Saul. Shimei’s accusations were thus actually hurled against God.

Delivered the kingdom. It is true that the Lord had permitted the chain of events to take place whereby David’s kingdom was apparently falling into the hands of Absalom, but the reason was far different from that set forth by Shimei. David’s own conscience told him exactly what was responsible for his sudden reverse of fortunes. The Lord had warned the king that because of his sin against Bathsheba and Uriah, judgments would come (2 Samuel 12:10-12). David knew that he merited this punishment and wondered only at the kindness and mercy of God that it should have been so long delayed. But knowing both the mercy and goodness of God as well as His justice, David did not despair, but looked forward to the time when God would again intervene and restore the kingdom to him.