Spend time in prayer and silence with God asking him to meet you and speak to you.
Bible Reading
Two years later, when Absalom’s sheepshearers were at Baal Hazor near the border of Ephraim, he invited all the king’s sons to come there. Absalom went to the king and said, “Your servant has had shearers come. Will the king and his attendants please join me?” “No, my son,” the king replied. “All of us should not go; we would only be a burden to you.” Although Absalom urged him, he still refused to go but gave him his blessing. Then Absalom said, “If not, please let my brother Amnon come with us.” The king asked him, “Why should he go with you?” But Absalom urged him, so he sent with him Amnon and the rest of the king’s sons. Absalom ordered his men, “Listen! When Amnon is in high spirits from drinking wine and I say to you, ‘Strike Amnon down,’ then kill him. Don’t be afraid. Haven’t I given you this order? Be strong and brave.” 2So Absalom’s men did to Amnon what Absalom had ordered. Then all the king’s sons got up, mounted their mules and fled.
– 2 Samuel 13:23-29
Devotion
The consequences of David’s sin continue to affect his family. Absalom exacts revenge on Amnon for raping Tamar by having him killed. The family dysfunction continues. As a result of his successful assassination plot, Absalom is forced to flee Jerusalem and flee to Geshur where he would live apart from his family for three years. The fruit of sin often leads to alienation. Sin has a negative impact on the relationships that are most meaningful to us.
The Big Question
How has your sin impacted your relationship with those you hold dear? Do you need to reconcile with a loved one? Ask God to show you the first step in the healing process. Reconciliation is not always easy, but is crucial if you are going to experience the “abundant life” that Jesus promised.
Conclude in prayer and silence reflecting on what you’ve learned.