Cynicism

When she saw King David leaping and dancing before the Lord, she was filled with contempt for him. 2 Samuel 6:16

Those who think too much can slip into cynicism by overanalyzing people and situations.

Michal, King David’s wife, was a thinker and an analyzer. She understood political power. Growing up in the shadow of her father, King Saul, Michal had learned to be suspicious. King Saul, perhaps Israel’s most paranoid ruler, had taught his daughter to distrust and fear others. If people say something nice, you’d better question their motives. They’re probably out to take advantage of you, maybe even to take your place.

Observing her father, Micahl saw how difficult it is to stay on top, ahead of all challenger. She learned that a leader should never let down his guard or risk being deceived. By watching her father, Michal learned to doubt th sincerity of others. She allowed suspicion and doubt to grow in her heart and poison her outlook on life.

On the day when the ark of the Lord was brought into the city, Michal’s cynicism erupted. Celebration filled the air that day, and David was about to see his dream fulfilled. Unable to restrain his excitement, he enthusiastically joined in the festivities and “danced before the Lord with all his might, wearing a priestly tunic” (2 Sam. 6:14).

Watching the scene from a window above, Michal was appalled at her husband’s public display . She thought, Where is the decorum and dignity befitting a king? Where is the royal pomp and ceremony? Michal believed people would lose respect for a king who behaved in such a common manner. In a voice dripping with sarcasm, she cut into him: “How glorious the king of Israel looked today! He exposed himself to the servant girls like any indecent person might do!” (v. 20).

Michal couldn’t understand David’s trusting, freewheeling spirit. Cynics don’t understand such people. They see themselves as realists and think of trusting, unguarded people as simple and naive. Michal thought David was too carefree and that his irresponsible actions could jeopardize his position. Doesn’t he care about guarding the dignity of his office? she wondered. Doesn’t he care about opinion polls? Doesn’t he care about the political fallout for his behavior?

Cynicism caused Michal to despise David for what she perceived as his naïvé and careless disregard for political realities. Some would say that in turn, Michal’s cynicism prevented Michal form achieving a fruitful and productive life (v. 23).

—Richard Doebler

Reflection

Do I sometimes overanalyze people’s motives or question their sincerity? What’s the difference between a cynical distrust of others and the ability to cultivate a healthy discernment?