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Dear Heavenly Father, Praise When David heard that Ahithophel was among the conspirators, he cried out, “O Lord, please turn the counsel of Ahithophel into foolishness” (2 Sam 15:31). And behold, just a few moments later, Hushai came to meet David! I praise you today as the God who knows what I need before I even ask. You know the end of each path that I take, and you go before me to prepare a way. Hallelujah to the One who leads and sustains me! Today in Your Word Today you told me how Absalom led a rebellion against his father David. Joab realized that David still loved Absalom in spite of the murder of Amnon, and he used a clever ploy to convince David to allow Absalom to return. Unlike Nathan, whose story appealed to David’s conscience over his feelings, Joab’s story appealed to David’s feelings over his conscience. David knew something should be done about Absalom, but he lacked the courage and resolve to do it. Joab, rather than urging David to do the right thing, became an accomplice to David’s weakness and indecision. This teaches me how important it is to surround myself with friends who will hold me accountable to the truth. Absalom was permitted to return to Jerusalem, but he was not allowed into David’s presence. For two years Absalom waited, and finally, sensing the time was right, he put a fire under Joab (literally) and was reconciled with his father. David embraced him in forgiveness, but Absalom’s heart was not repentant. Indeed, David was welcoming a deadly serpent into his home. Within four years, Absalom had stolen the hearts of the people and David was once again running for his life. This shows me that true reconciliation must be based on genuine repentance, for anything less is a prelude to disaster. Reflection David believed Ziba’s charge against Mephibosheth without verifying his story (2 Sam 16:1–4). I should never be quick to accept someone’s condemnation of another, especially when the accuser may profit from the other’s downfall. Request Father, give me the grace to respond to the criticism of others with the humility of David. Teach me to leave room for you to look on my affliction and show mercy (2 Sam 16:10–13). Thanksgiving Thank you for the certainty that you will stand by me even when my own family and friends turn against me. Truly you are my rock—I shall not be moved (Ps 62:6). In Jesus’ name, Amen. Suggested Hymn: “Dare to Do Right” — George L. Taylor. Meditation Verse: 2 Samuel 15:25. |