The delay caused by Hushai’s advice to Absalom gave David enough time to gather and strengthen his army. Even though Absalom had betrayed David, he still wanted to make sure he was protected and safe. His concern was almost more for his son than for his own country. David told his army to keep Absalom safe. His greatest general did not listen to him. Instead Joab killed Absalom when he could have captured him.
When the news of the victory reached David, his greatest concern was not for the victory or for his army, but for his wayward son. The news of the death of Absalom crushed David. Maybe David realized that he was responsible for Absalom’s death. Maybe he realized that if he had disciplined Absalom earlier, it may have never come to this. Whatever the reason, David was crushed with this news.
Disciplining and correcting children are difficult. It’s much easier to let them do what they want to do. Yet we are disciplined by our Heavenly Father for our own good, and that is what He desires parents to do for their children, to train them to trust in God above all things, to do what is right, and that there is consequences for doing wrong.