Today’s Scripture: 2 Samuel 15-18
[I show] love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments. – Exodus 20:6
Have you ever been disappointed by the actions of people you love and depend on, and for whom you have the highest hopes and expectations? It hurts when a friend whispers about you or a child lies to you or a spouse breaks a promise.
But consider the life of David. Today’s passage is filled with his disappointments from family, associates, and friends. God told David He would punish him for his sin in the matter of Uriah by raising up evil against him out of his own household.
Immorality and murder were David’s sins and, although forgiven, those sins occurred among his children years later when Amnon defiled his sister Tamar and Absalom murdered Amnon in revenge.
These were the beginnings of David’s punishment at the hand of God. And I’m sure he suffered deeply from the thought that his own bad example had brought his children to this wickedness. But in the midst of it all, David learned there was one who would never fail him–his God.
Listen to David’s words: “My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken… My salvation and my honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge. Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge” (Psalm 62:1-2,7-8).
Christian, have you learned that lesson? What are your disappointments today? They hurt, I know, but now is the time to follow David’s example. Respond to God with thanksgiving and joy!
Prayer
Lord, I often rely on people, things, and systems that are unreliable. Today I renew my total dependence on You. Amen.
To Ponder
Your worst circumstances may be God’s best opportunity to bring new meaning to your life.
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