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Dear Heavenly Father, Praise When David was in the wilderness of Judah, he said, “O God, you are my God; I earnestly search for you. My soul thirsts for you; my whole body longs for you in this parched and weary land where there is no water” (Ps 63:1 NLT). David was in the middle of a desert, yet he would rather have you than water! I praise you today as the God who satisfies me more than the richest feast. Truly, your lovingkindness is better than life (Ps 63:3 NASB). Glory to God! Today in Your Word Today you told me how you helped David put down Absalom’s revolt. When Absalom arrived at Jerusalem, Ahithophel, the grandfather of Bathsheba, advised him to rape David’s concubines. This fulfilled your word through Nathan the prophet (2 Sam 12:11–12), and it teaches me that the sin I commit in secret will find me out. Anytime Satan tries to convince me that no one will ever know, I should remember this story and reject his lies. You enabled Hushai to defeat the good counsel of Ahithophel in answer to David’s prayer (2 Sam 15:31; 17:14), and it comforts me to know that the wisdom of the enemy is powerless against your sovereign will. David wrote at least two songs during this ordeal, and they are an inspiring example of how to cast my cares on you. David poured out his heart to you and cried out for help, but he did not end his prayers in despair. Instead, he comforted his soul with thoughts of you, and he chose (“I will”) to praise you in spite of his circumstances. David prepared his army for war and there was a great battle in the wooded hills of southern Gilead. Absalom’s forces were defeated and Absalom himself was slain. When David learned of his son’s death, he collapsed in grief. Joab angrily confronted David and reminded him that a good leader puts his own feelings and emotions aside and does what’s best for his people. This shows me how easy it is to be so caught up in my own pain that I’m blind to the sacrifices of those who love and support me. Reflection David’s reaction to Absalom’s death reveals that he blamed himself for everything that had gone wrong with his children. If I don’t make the hard choices early in my own children’s lives, I will end up in that chamber over the gate, weeping with David in regret. Request Father, obeying your command to discipline my children is difficult, for it’s never easy to deal out pain to those we love. Help me to learn from David’s broken heart and say ‘Yes’ to your will. Thanksgiving Thank you for the peace that comes from knowing that you will sustain me. Truly, “Salvation belongs to the Lord; your blessing be on your people!” (Ps 3:8). In Jesus’ name, Amen. Suggested Hymn: “Thou, O Lord, are a Shield” — The Psalter. Meditation Verse: 2 Samuel 17:14.