Day1
Week27
2 Samuel
“Then Joab said, “I will not waste any more time with you.” He took three spears in his hand and thrust them into the heart of Absalom while he was still alive in the midst of the tree. Then ten young men, armor bearers for Joab, gathered around and struck down Absalom, killing him. When Joab blew the horn, the people returned from pursuing Israel, for Joab held back the people. Then they took Absalom, disposed of him in a large pit in the forest, and piled over him a very large heap of stones. Then all Israel fled, everyone to his home.”
2 Samuel 18:14-17 MEV
Cross references
2 Samuel 2:28;20:22;
Joshua 7:26;8:29
Rebellion
The heart of Jesus is displayed throughout the Books of Samuel. Here, through David we see this in his love for his son Absalom and willingness to forgive him at all cost.
Rebellion is the main character in this lesson. Absalom’s rebellion against his parents and Joab’s rebellion against his king both seem like justifiable acts, but in the end they are both rooted in rebellion and lead to not only disobedience, but absolute defiance.
I’m sure we have all rebelled against our parents a time or two, but God shows us here how serious the offense is to Him by the example of Absalom’s fate. Left unanswered, the root of rebellion will continue to grow and lead us into disastrous situations.
Have you ever disagreed with your boss or your spouse?
How did you manage your disagreement?
A lot of times we end up doing things our own way and disregarding authority because we think we know better or at the very least we run our mouths about our disagreement.
Joab felt that he was doing the right thing and that he was protecting the king and the kingdom. He took matters into his own hands and committed seemingly, justifiable murder.
We serve a God of mercy and forgiveness. David was a man after God’s own heart. He was full of love and mercy for his children.
Is there rebellion in your heart?
Action Step
God, You know me so well.
You know what I'm wrestling with right now.
Thank You that this is not the end of the story. You are strengthening me.
Today, I choose to bring my struggles to You. I choose to rejoice because I know that I am growing through these hardships.
You are right here with me! Thank You! In Jesus' name, Amen.
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