Bible Chapter: II Samuel 17 & 18

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
    There is a major difference between when people follow God and when they let their own desires take over.  It seems that human desires so often go against God’s plan and righteousness and lead to sinful actions.  God gave David the place of leadership for the nation.  Eventually David drifted away from fully seeking and obeying God.  The moral and ethical rules didn’t mean as much any more.  By his drifting away, the results were negatively felt by the next generation.  We see here how Absalom allowed pride and hunger for position to cause him to go against his own father.  Thousands of people died as a result of the battle.  Then, David’s heart was broken when Absalom died.  The biblical truth that says we must be sure our sins will find us out will always eventually become true in each life.
    I have a hard time grasping the concept of a son, Absalom, conspiring with the military to attack his father.  His advisors were talking about the plan to kill King David so that all the people would follow Absalom.  This can only be someone who is spoiled, who is self-centered and only cares about their own comfort and pride.  Sin brings a multitude of consequences that grow far beyond anything anyone would ever expect.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
    David had his position because God elevated him.  Absalom sought position and manipulated people to try to attain it.  He had to tamper with God’s plan.  He had to scheme to kill his father so he could satisfy his desire for acclaim.  While it is fine to have aspirations and dreams, it is also very important to let God do the placing of a person in a position.  Plotting to control will only bring sad results.  Also, it is important to remember that with position comes responsibility and work.

3.  How can I help someone?
    Seek God to find His direction and dreams for your life.  Do what God councils and let Him open the doors for service.  Don’t try to control or manipulate people to bring advancement.