In 2 Samuel 15, we learn more about the intents of Absalom when it came to his father, the king. You see, he may seem to only try to do kind acts for the people and his father’s kingdom, but really he had evil intentions from the beginning. For he also wanted to become king and sway people to follow him instead of the king. And this is how it all began. There were people coming and going to see the king for judgment, but he wanted to be the judge instead. He said, 1“oh that I were made judge in the land, that every man which hath any suit or cause might come unto me, and I would do him justice!” (2 Samuel 15:4) He also was the center of attention to the whole city of Jerusalem. For 1“when any man came nigh to him to do him obeisance, he put forth his hand, and took him, and kissed him. And on this manner did Absalom to all Israel that came to the king for judgment: so Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel.” (2 Samuel 15:5,6) But this was just the beginning, for his intentions to go to Hebron may have seemed good and all, in order for him to serve the Lord, but really he was going there to become king himself. So 1“Absalom sent spies throughout all the tribes of Israel, saying, As soon as ye hear the sound of the trumpet, then ye shall say, Absalom reigneth in Hebron.” (2 Samuel 15:10) And after the people of Israel heard this, they were also for Absalom. So this caused David to pray to God for safety. For now, even his son was against him. This is part of that prayer, 2“Lord, how are they increased that trouble me! many are they that rise up against me. Many there be which say of my soul, There is no help for him in God. Selah. But thou, O Lord, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head.” (Psalm 3:1-3)
It was at this time that David found himself in a bad spot with his son and the people, but his heart continued with the Lord for safety and guidance. It was in this time that he 1“said unto all his servants that were with him at Jerusalem, Arise, and let us flee; for we shall not else escape from Absalom: make speed to depart, lest he overtake us suddenly, and bring evil upon us, and smite the city with the edge of the sword.” (2 Samuel 15:14) So they left with the ark of the covenant and stayed in a far off place for the time being. It was in this time that 1“Ittai answered the king, and said, As the Lord liveth, and as my lord the king liveth, surely in what place my lord the king shall be, whether in death or life, even there also will thy servant be.” (2 Samuel 15:21) So they stayed there until things looked better. He also said to Zadok, 1“carry back the ark of God into the city: if I shall find favour in the eyes of the Lord, he will bring me again, and shew me both it, and his habitation: But if he thus say, I have no delight in thee; behold, here am I, let him do to me as seemeth good unto him.” (2 Samuel 15:25,26) So he continued to trust in the Lord, even in his adversity. 1“And one told David, saying, Ahithophel is among the conspirators with Absalom. And David said, O Lord, I pray thee, turn the counsel of Ahithophel into foolishness.” (2 Samuel 15:30,31) Therefore, David continued to pray for God’s help, even to turn this man’s heart into foolishness, that he may know the folly he is in. This is a great example for everyone that is facing adversity with someone or people in general. When it appears that everyone is against us, it is good to come to the Lord in prayer, that He may give us wise counsel and also convict those people that have are being hurtful to repent.
Let us pray:
Oh Lord, even when I am weak, You make me strong. You hear my cries and come to my rescue. I am not left alone in my tears, for You listen to every word I say and give me comfort. As You have said in scripture, You have also made known to me what a Savior is really like. I am not alone, for You are by my side every day of my life. When I wake, You give me new breath to live another day for You. I may be tempted, but You help me overcome them. I am led to safety when the enemy comes my way because You love me. Thank You for knowing what is ailing me at times, and giving me wise counsel, so that I may get through it. People may be hard on me at times, but still You help me know how to handle things in the best way possible. It is true that in Your service not everybody will be for You, but there will be people that only want to tear down Your message of hope. They may even say harsh things to me and others with me while trying to hurt us, but still I know where to go and what to say to them and others, for You are leading me. Even if people appear to be friends, but say things behind my back, I will press forward in faith knowing that they will see who I really am for You as time goes by. I can’t help it if people want to be mean to others, but only pray that they will see their wrongs and repent. So, Lord, I pray for any person that is going through trials and adversity right now in their lives. Bring comfort and peace to their heart and soul. Help them through the difficult times, that they may come out victorious with You at the head. Surely, we are not alone, for You are our God and our great King. I love You, Lord. I praise You and give You great glory. Amen.
Let us read the Bible:
Note: Any Numbered References, found above, are listed below.
