Monday, August 5 – 2 Samuel 14, 15 – Commentary, Patriarchs and Prophets Chapter 72, “The Rebellion of Absalom”

1. Whom did Joab seek help from to persuade David to forgive Absalom for the death of his son Amnon? (2 Samuel 14:2)

2. Which of David’s advisors joined Absalom’s conspiracy? (2 Samuel 15:12)

Commentary and Reflection:

In Tekoa, near Jerusalem, there was a wise woman Joab sought help from to convince David to forgive his son Absalom. Patriarchs and Prophets describe her as a woman “reputed for wisdom.” We must cultivate wisdom. It is exercised in both actions and words. It is common to confuse lack of wisdom with sincerity. The way the woman of Tekoa presented the matter to David achieved its objective because of her wisdom. The events would have turned out very different if the woman had approached David, like, “Absalom killed Amnon, but you killed Uriah; there’s not much difference between you two. At least Absalom sought to defend his sister; you killed Uriah because you wanted his wife.” No wonder Joab sought out this woman for the delicate task.

Wisdom begins with a kind attitude, and it requires reflection. An aunt of mine had a sign in her house that read, “Before you use your tongue, make sure your brain is on.” I pray that we are known for our discernment and wisdom.

Soon, Absalom began to reveal his true deceitful and treacherous character. Ambition turned him into a traitor to his father. Ambition is a bad counselor. It is OK to want to progress and grow, but not at all costs. Ambition, whatever it may be, must be guided by humility and subject to obedience to God.

Can we see the contrast between Absalom’s character and David’s? David waited patiently for God’s timing; he did not take matters into his own hands. Absalom did not submit his plans to God’s will. David’s hard life forged his character, while Absalom’s pampered life corrupted him.

Here, we find Absalom as the classic politician at the gates of Jerusalem. The famous proverb goes, “How do we know a politician is lying? Because his lips are moving.” There may be some honest and God-fearing politicians, but the problem is that politics involves saying what people want to hear to gain their support and win power.

“Absalom would say to him, ‘Look, your case is good and right, but there is no deputy of the king to hear you.’ Moreover, Absalom would say, ‘Oh, that I was made judge in the land, and everyone who has any suit or cause would come to me; then I would give him justice.’” (2 Samuel 15:3, 4, NKJV).

Classic politician. “The one in office is no good; remove him and put me in.” “In this manner, Absalom acted toward all Israel who came to the king for judgment. So, Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel.” (2 Samuel 15:6, NKJV).

How gullible we can be! It works very well for someone to tell us what we want to hear, especially if they are from our party. The politician from the other party lies; ours tells the truth. Your heart belongs to God; let no one steal it away.

The inspired counsel says,

“His children are to separate themselves from politics, from any alliance with unbelievers. They are not to link their interests with the interests of the world. “Give proof of your allegiance to Me” He says, “by standing as My chosen heritage, as a people zealous of good works.” Do not take part in political strife. Separate from the world, and refrain from bringing into the church or school ideas that will lead to contention or disorder.” Fundamentals of Christian Education 483

Keep these precious lessons in your heart.