Reflect
The threat to the throne is ended, but the work is just beginning. Among other things, this passage reminds us of the age-old need for wisdom and discernment. David seems to foolishly pit the tribes against each other (v.9-12, 41-43) at a time when bridges need to be built. He is also confronted with Mephibosheth, the one he thought had betrayed him (see 16:1-4). It seems that David has jumped to a false conclusion (the appearance of Mephibosheth is evidence he’s been grieving since David left). David is also faced with responding to Shemei (16:6-8) and reigning in his seemingly bloodthirsty generals. Wisdom is the art of living well. According to Gordon Smith, holy people are wise people; those who walk closely with God will inevitably become wiser.
Apply
Where do you need wisdom this week? Let us look to Jesus, asking for the gifts of wisdom and discernment. Let us not shrink back from difficulty because we fear making wrong decisions, but trust the God who works for good. God develops wise people through the failures and successes of normal living.
Tim Pippus
Pray
- For those who need to be encouraged in heart and united in love.
- Pray through the prayer page in the bulletin.
- Pray for Pastor Dan, our Lead Team Pastor, his family and his intern Dave Falk.
- Pray for our Hospitality Coordinator, Irene Dickau.