August 27, 2021 | 2 Samuel 16

Read 2 Samuel 16

Scripture- 2 Samuel 16:11-12- David then said to Abishai and all his officials, “My son, my own flesh and blood, is trying to kill me. How much more, then, this Benjamite! Leave him alone; let him curse, for the Lord has told him to. It may be that the Lord will look upon my misery and restore to me his covenant blessing instead of his curse today.

Observation- David may have had a lot of faults, but the way he handled this criticism was impressive. David had nothing to do with the death of Saul and his family. He didn’t kill them or murder them. In fact, Saul’s grandson ate at the King’s table with David. Instead of getting revenge or retaliating, David humbly endures the false accusations trusting God will vindicate him. 

Application- Patiently enduring hardship is difficult. It is especially hard when people are falsely criticizing me. In those moments, it is so important to trust the Lord. I have to remember that what he says about me is the only thing that is important. Through Jesus, he calls me his holy child. Then I have to remember that the Lord will vindicate me. He will defend me when the time is right. Until then, I will patiently endure and grow in what my Savior says about me. 

Prayer- Father, thank you for loving me and having the final say in every matter. That includes my reputation. When people are unjustly criticizing me, let me run to you to be built up in what you say about me. Guard my thoughts and my lips that I don’t sin in retaliating. Strengthen my faith and trust in you as I wait for you to vindicate me. Amen.