Before Reading.
- Centering prayer— Pray for illumination, “Lord, open my heart and mind by the power of the Holy Spirit,” and remain in silence.
Reading.
- Read slowly, keeping any words or phrase that come to your mind, and mark on them.
- Close eyes and meditate on what you read.
- Take a note if you have question, inspiration.
Read 2 Samuel 18
Absalom’s death.
Battle between King David’s army and Absalom showed good contrast how each side engaged in battle. Absalom’s hastily assembled forces were no match for David’s standing army under skilled and experienced commanders.
While he was running away, Absalom was caught by his hair, hanging on a tree. And Joab, King David’s commander in chief kill him.
In spite of Absalom’s rebellion, complete apostasy, King David still loved him and wanted his life might be saved. Joab knew about King David’s wish (v.5). However, Joab never withheld a fatal blow when he felt that it would be to his own or King David’s advantage. (v.14). He was a man of brutality.
Historian described the heart of King David when he was mourning over the death of his son Absalom. (v.33).
This story points readers to feel the love of father for his rebellious children, and to see the heart of God, loving and compassionate, toward all sinners, even to the point that “God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)
1. What does this passage tell you about God?
2.What does this passage tell you about people.?
3. What does this passage tell you about yourself and God’s will for you?
