Besides, it seems right for me to serve you, just as I served your father.”
Go back into the city and tell Absalom, “Your Majesty, I am your servant. I will serve you now, just as I served your father in the past.” Hushai, if you do that, you can help me ruin Ahithophel's plans.
Hushai answered, “The LORD and the people of Israel have chosen you to be king. I can't leave. I have to stay and serve the one they've chosen.
Absalom turned to Ahithophel and said, “Give us your advice! What should we do?”
His words were smoother than butter, and softer than olive oil. But hatred filled his heart, and he was ready to attack with a sword.
He and the other Jews hid their true feelings so well that even Barnabas was fooled.
“But what have I done?” David asked. “Do you know of anything I've ever done that would keep me from fighting the enemies of my king?”