2 Samuel 9:8

And he, Mephibosheth, bowed himself, in grateful appreciation of the king's kindness, and said, with words wherein he confessed himself unworthy of such great goodness, what is thy servant that thou shouldest look upon such a dead dog as I am? The comparison, as in 1 Samuel 24:14, is intended to convey the feeling of utter worthlessness, of despicable lowliness. David's forbearance and love, the eager zeal with which he entered upon the performance of good works, are an example to all believers.