April 28, 2011
No basis for complaint
At the first sign of challenge from Absalom, David fled the city. (2Sam 15:14) Why would the mighty warrior give up without a fight? Surely he did not want to fight his own son. He loved him to the end. But I think David was resigned to face the consequences of his sin. He fell on the mercy of the court. He said, “If God is through with me then I will do what seems best to Him.” (2Sam 15:25) David was completely humbled. He realized that every blessing in his life was by the grace of God. He deserved nothing. He didn’t fight to maintain his position. He was willing to suffer if it was God’s will. He placed himself in the hands of a faithful Creator and trusted His judgment. (1Pe 4:19)

April 29, 2011
A fatal loss of perspective
Ahithophel put a lot of stock in his career as a king’s advisor. So much so, that the first time he failed, he killed himself. (2Sam 17:23) Obviously all of his self-esteem, significance and security were wrapped up in his job. This often happens to soldiers as well. They forget how to function apart from the military. They have no self-image other than what the Army provides for them. But life is not about what you do. It’s about who you know (i.e. the Lord and his people). Ahithophel could have retired into obscurity and enjoyed many years of sweet fellowship with the Lord and helpful ministry to those around him. Instead he chose to make one last statement…and a foolish one at that! It’s ironic that a life of wisdom is punctuated be such foolishness.

April 30, 2011
Wisdom for strength
There came a time in David’s life when his leadership was more important than his physical prowess. He was nearly defeated by a Philistine when his soldiers came to this realization and forbade him from going to battle any more. (2Sam 21:15-17) I’m sure it was a blow to David’s ego, but he had to reconcile himself to the fact that he was getting older, and weaker. It is difficult for the men to deal with declining strength. We become less capable and more dependant. The consolation is that we are much wiser than we were in our youth. The key is to trade wisdom for strength and invest in the next generation. (Pro 20:29, 2Ti 4:6-7)

May 1, 2011
Be humble or be humiliated
The Almighty delighted in David. (2Sa 22:20, Psa 18:19) Like a powerful tycoon who crushes his enemies, but loves his grandchildren, so God favors his own. God favors the faithful, true, pure and humble but he humiliates the proud (2Sa 22:26-27, Psa 18:25-27). This is the lesson that the people of God have learned and taught through the ages. God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble (1Pe 5:5). To be opposed by the Almighty is a “no win” situation. But when the Lord of all delights in you, you are in the safest place there is.