In chapters 16 & 17, Absalom took control of the capitol city of Jerusalem. Absalom demonstrated his complete disrespect for his father by sleeping with David鈥檚 concubines (slave wives). Absalom then made a key mistake by delaying his pursuit of David. This gave David time to organize those who were still loyal to him. In today鈥檚 reading we see that, despite Absalom鈥檚 terrible behavior, David wanted his life to be spared. David was able to keep his kingdom as God promised but at great personal cost.
God has made many promises to us including eternity in heaven and his presence in us. God will keep those promises, no matter what, but that doesn鈥檛 prevent us from going through some painful consequences when we make poor choices.