Today’s Reading: 2 Samuel 15; 2 Samuel 16; Psalm 32; Matthew 25
Scripture: 2 Samuel 15:1, 6-9
1 In the course of time, Absalom provided himself with a chariot and horses and with fifty men to run ahead of him...
6 Absalom behaved in this way toward all the Israelites who came to the king asking for justice, and so he stole the hearts of the men of Israel.
7 At the end of four years, Absalom said to the king, "Let me go to Hebron and fulfill a vow I made to the LORD. 8 While your servant was living at Geshur in Aram, I made this vow: 'If the LORD takes me back to Jerusalem, I will worship the LORD in Hebron.' "
9 The king said to him, "Go in peace." So he went to Hebron.
Observation: Absalom is openly involved in a mutinous campaign to establish himself as king, replacing his own father, David. The first six verses of chapter 15 detail all the activities that were a part of this strategy. He did this day after day after day. Verse 7 jolted me: "at the end of four years..." FOUR YEARS! Absalom did this openly right under David's nose for four long years. David no doubt had plenty of people warning him -- after all, he had so many loyal subjects and many wise advisors. But David must have dismissed all their concerns. He had a huge blind spot in the area of family -- and disaster ensued. The results were ruinous on so many levels. David's lack of attention to this obvious threat was so irresponsible as to be virtually criminal.
Application: Pay attention. A stitch in time saves nine. Warnings must be heeded -- especially by those who are in positions of leadership. And action must be taken, even if the offenders are close family members or friends. Delaying or ignoring can result in disaster. Pay attention -- listen to good advice.
Prayer: Lord, help me to be attentive and responsible in my life and ministry. Keep me safe from foolish inaction. And give me good advisors who can watch over the blind spots in my life.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
1 comment:
We have learned this lesson the hard way haven't we? It is better for the group as a whole that individuals with rebellious hearts and divisive intent be cut out of the group than stay and wreak havoc. We have often spent time trying to show them their error and turn them to the right path, only to have them use our grace to sow seeds of division and discontent that reaped a bitter harvest. No more.
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