Life is not fair. Kindness is not always returned. There is a quote that is often stated that says, “No good deed goes unpunished.” David knew this truth all too well. For years he fled from King Saul who treated David like a traitor though he had only been loyal to Saul.
I can only imagine David’s emotions of betrayal had to have hit their heights in 2 Samuel 15. The end of chapter 14 ends with David reconciling with his son Absalom. The writer tells of the apparent reconciliation and forgiveness between the two as he writes, 2 Samuel 14:33 (CSB) “Then the king kissed Absalom.” Finally, after years of estrangement, it appears that David will be able to have his family back together as one.
In the very next verse, we read that Absalom had other plans, 2 Samuel 15:1 (CSB) “After this, Absalom got himself a chariot, horses, and fifty men to run before him.” Immediately after regaining his father’s trust, Absalom begins his rebellious revolt. This procession can only be interpreted as an action by one usurping authority. For the next four years, Absalom, through cunning deception, stole the hearts of the men of Israel.
We can all identify with this feeling of betrayal. We have all been falsely accused or treated unfairly. What is a person to do when something so egregious is done to us? Most of us are tempted to get defensive, or worse yet, seek revenge. But scripture calls us to a different standard.
Jesus gives this guidance to His disciples, Matthew 5:39–45 (CSB)
“But I tell you, don’t resist an evildoer. On the contrary, if anyone slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. 40 As for the one who wants to sue you and take away your shirt, let him have your coat as well. 41 And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two. 42 Give to the one who asks you, and don’t turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you. 43 “You have heard that it was said, Love your neighbor, and hate your enemy. 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 so that you may be children of your Father in heaven.”
God makes it clear that He is the defender of His children. We read in Romans 12:19 (CSB) “Friends, do not avenge yourselves; instead, leave room for God’s wrath, because it is written, Vengeance belongs to me; I will repay,, says the Lord.” When we feel most wronged and are most tempted to defend ourselves, God says, “Trust in me; I’ve got this.”
David trusted in God’s sovereign work through all that would take place in the next few chapters. And God won the battle.
What battle do you need to trust to the Lord?
Dear God, help me to live my life in full obedience to Your Spirit trusting in you to win the battles that are beyond my control. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Wednesday Night ReZOOM’s
Join us tonight at 7 PM for our Wednesday Night ministries. Check the e-mail you received from Amy last Friday for your Zoom Room assignment.
Food Cards Needed for NKU International Students
We have 50 international students stranded at NKU (primarily from African nations). There is a need to collect gift cards FOR THESE RESTAURANTS SPECIFICALLY (walking distance to where they are housed with no transportation) to help feed these students: Chipotle, Canes, Chick Fil-A, Ichiban, Subway, Wendy’s, and Meijer. They were supplementing their income to cover food costs at NKU and are now unemployed.
Currently, we no longer need food for the Piner Families. If we receive any more requests, we will restart this program.
VBS on the Road
We are looking for volunteers to lead and/or host 2-hour day camps in subdivisions around our area during the month of July. If you are interested in teaching or hosting, please contact Bro. Mark. mark@pinerbaptist.org
Women’s Bible Study
“Discerning the Voice of God,” Bible Study will meet on Tuesday evenings 6:30-8:00 p.m., beginning Tuesday, June 2, Zoom channel to be announced. Call Amy in office to sign up to make sure you get a book.