2 Samuel 18

Scripture

2 Samuel 18:12-13

12 But the man replied, “Even if a thousand shekels were weighed out into my hands, I would not lay a hand on the king’s son. In our hearing the king commanded you and Abishai and Ittai, ‘Protect the young man Absalom for my sake.’13 And if I had put my life in jeopardy—and nothing is hidden from the king—you would have kept your distance from me.”

 

Observation-What does it say?

 

A man from David's army had every opportunity to kill Absalom. He informed Joab where he had found Absalom and Joab asked him why he didn't kill him on the spot. Joab said he would have been given 10 shekels of silver and a warrior's belt. However, the man stayed true to his king's command not to harm his son Absalom.

 

Understanding-What does it mean?

 

The man remained faithful to the commands of his king and did not sell him out for money, status or recognition.

 

It may have been tempting for the man to take Absalom's life when he saw him hanging by his hair on a large oak, however, he remained faithful and trustworthy to his king's command and would not disobey him even for money or status.

 

Life Application

 

Remain faithful to the commands of our Eternal King.

 

We must not sell out our Lord for money, status, comfort, happiness, etc.  We must remain faithful to His commands over our lives as He continues to remain faithful to us. 

 

Dear Lord, just as the man was submissive to his earthly King, may we also be submissive to You, our Eternal King. Holy Spirit, please continue to remind us that this is our temporary, not our permanent home. I pray that we wouldn't compromise who we are as a member of Your army, just for extra comforts in this world. Amen.

 

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-Michelle Gaddi