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THE RESTLESS CHARACTER OF ABSALOM
LORD’S DAY, AUGUST 23
2 Samuel 15

Galatians 5:22-26

 

“Let us not be desirous of vain glory,
provoking one another,

envying one another.”

 

THE RESTLESS CHARACTER OF ABSALOM
 
Absalom, as ever, was an ambitious and restless young man. He opened a new chapter in David’s house. He was the thirdborn son of David. Absalom had gotten rid of Amnon (the firstborn) and it transpired later that, in his activities, he coveted the throne. David did not perceive his intentions early and he had designated Solomon to succeed him. When Absalom was reconciled to David over the murder of Amnon, he started another phase of struggle with David because his intentions were burning in him.
 
In his conspiracy, Absalom won the hearts of the people of Israel. He gathered around him, men to further his interests. He prepared to instigate an open rebellion against his father. Matters got worse and David had to flee from Jerusalem. The treason was ruthless and David had no alternative but to leave the palace. However, he was quick to put in place a strategy to come back.
 
Absalom won the hearts of Israel and he set about a convoy of chariots and horses to follow him. This was to boost his public image. It was five years after killing Amnon that he was able to see the king. He was reconciled to his father as seen earlier. Then he felt that he was free to do as he wanted. He started to pitch camp near the king’s gate and used his privilege as a member of the royal family to interfere with the affairs of the nation. He approached the people who came to the king for judgment as he sought to win their hearts. Scripture records that “…Absalom called unto him, and said, Of what city art thou? And he said, Thy servant is of one of the tribes of Israel. And Absalom said unto him, See, thy matters are good and right; but there is no man deputed of the king to hear thee. Absalom said moreover, Oh that I were made judge in the land, that every man which hath any suit or cause might come unto me, and I would do him justice!” (2 Sam 15:2-4). In this, he recruited a good number of loyal followers.
 
THOUGHT: An evil character is never short of subtle devices.

PRAYER: Father, let my character yield the fruit of the Spirit.

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