Day 3

HUMILITY OR SELF-PITY?

"Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart." Psalm 32:11

David's trust in Absalom was blind. Perhaps he did not want to see the contempt and the threat from the one who was now heir to the throne. Back in Jerusalem from exile Absalom acted as if he were king 2 Sam. 15:1-6. By presenting himself publicly, "Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel." Under a guise of turning to the Lord Absalom went to Hebron taking a small army with him 2 Sam. 15:7-12. From there he sent spies throughout the land and co-opted the help of the King's chief counsellor Ahithophel.

David was caught unawares and realised too late how serious the challenge was. He was forced to flee with his household leaving behind ten concubines to keep the house. (2 Sam. 15:13-23)

In this part of the story of Absalom's treachery we see clearly the change in the relationship between David and God. He no longer enquired confidently of the Lord and became irresolute and indecisive. Look at his response to Zadok, Abiathar and the Levites who accompanied him from Jerusalem (2 Sam. 15:24-29). See the pathetic image he presented in allowing Shimei to abuse him and rebuffing the loyalty of the indignant Abishai 2 Sam. 16:5-13.

What was the reason for David's behaviour? Had he become so wrapped up in self pity that he neglected his responsibility? Where had the joy of our discover text gone?

What lesson can we learn? Look up the words of Paul 1 Cor. 10:23,24; Romans 15:1-4.