FOLLOW PEACE WITH ALL MEN (VI)

“And the king went forth, and all the people after him, and tarried in a place that was far off” (2 Samuel 15:17).

Absalom, David’s beloved son was the most handsome man in all Israel in his time. Everyone praised him for his beauty because from his head to his toe, he had no blemish (2 Samuel 14:25).

But Absalom was very wicked at heart. His external beauty was a mere facade, covering a heart steep in unimaginable evil. Virtually every sin men could commit resided in Absalom’s heart. From deceit to rebellion, abominable adultery and murder, Absalom was capable of just any kind of wickedness.

After killing Amnon, his half brother who had defiled his sister, Tamar, Absalom fled to Geshur to escape the king’s wrath (2 Samuel 13:38). But after three years, David forgave him, giving room for reconciliation. But unfortunately, that reconciliation became very costly for David.

In the spirit of reconciliation, David welcomed Absalom into his embrace and kissed him (2 Samuel 14:33). It was a costly embrace because a man who could kill his own brother should never be trusted. Absalom took the opportunity to get close enough to conspire with some of David’s close associates and toppled his own father’s government.

But the moment Absalom rebelled, David knew he was no longer safe and must distance himself from him immediately. That did not stop him from genuinely loving Absalom. Indeed, his heart constantly yearned for Absalom, and was truly distraught when he learned of his death.

Friends, you must know how to walk in wisdom towards those who are for war when you are for peace (Psalms 127:7). May God help us in Jesus name.
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FURTHER BIBLE READING: 2 SAMUEL 15:1-17.
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EXERCISES
1. What new insight have you gained from the above message? Please write it down in your journal.
2. What would be your prayer points and what are the steps you will take?
3. If you have been blessed by this message, please share it with your friends and loved ones. Tell a friend about what you learned from Today’s Message. Let’s spread the word of God together.

TODAY’S MESSAGE
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