“Inviting Trouble”

Scripture Passage

2 Samuel 15-17:14

Scripture Focus

Then Absalom would say, “You’ve really got a strong case here! It’s too bad the king doesn’t have anyone to hear it. I wish I were the judge. Then everyone could bring their cases to me for judgment, and I would give them justice!” (2 Samuel 15:3-4 NLT)

Observation

Some people know how to stir the pot, don’t they?

Perhaps…maybe…possibly…David can take some of the blame for what happens in today’s reading to the degree that he failed to adequately address the behavior of his children (as we wrote about regarding yesterday’s reading). But ultimately, Absalom’s actions far outweigh any culpability on David’s part. Absalom was intentional and calculating in his actions. He purposefully and manipulatively “set the table” so that people would compare him favorably in contrast to his father, King David. He skillfully made himself appear both caring and willing to act—and unable to act only because he wasn’t yet the king.

The truth is, it’s worth thinking twice when people are all-too-willing to give ear to your concerns. I hate to be that skeptical about it, but the fact is, sometimes people are just storing up ammo for some future skirmish, or building up credibility for some future opportunity, or—sometimes—just looking for information much more than they’re looking to lend a hand.

Now…what could possibly be even remotely encouraging about a thought like that to start the day? Well, the beauty of it is that—in spite of how dishonest people can be—Jesus is fully able to help us act in wisdom, too. He dealt with the same kinds of manipulative hearts himself on multiple occasions (see, for example, Luke 5:22 and 6:8). The same Holy Spirit that anointed Jesus to act and serve with divine insight is available to every believer who asks and He will grant understanding, whether in a moment’s revelation (see 1 Cor 12:8) or through specific seasons of prayer (James 1:5).

So be encouraged. The battles will be genuine, and are often unavoidable, but “thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!” (1 Cor 15:57).