There are many times children imitate their parents. I remind myself and other parents that in most cases you will be the number one earthly influence on your child’s life. Children will only do what they know. Thankfully, there is a Heavenly Father that is always present to have the biggest influence on this earthly life that will leave eternal implications.
Today’s Readings: 2 Samuel 15 and Psalm 47
As we continue to read through 2 Samuel 15 we read about Absalom, the third son of David with wife Maacah. As we continue through 2 Samuel, family troubles were mounting for David, and Absalom had just murdered Anaan. Now he wanted to use his leadership to take over the kingdom of his father, David. David’s family was falling apart. The beginning of 2 Samuel 15 you see how Absalom uses his qualities of beauty and people skills to exalt himself, and not listen for God. 2 Samuel 15:1-6 shows Absalom selfishly providing for himself, and persuading others to appointed him judge of the land. In 2 Samuel 15:10 he sends out secret messengers to tell others to say “Absalom reigneth in Hebron“! These actions by Absalom make me reflect on a couple verses.
John 3:30 (ESV) He must increase, but I must decrease.”
Galatians 1:10 (ESV) For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.
In Matthew 23:11-12 Jesus says, ” The greatest among you will be your servant. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”
The difference we have read and know is that when we are putting ourselves and the desire for power before a relationship with God, sooner than later our plans will fail against His. Self-destruction can happen when we listen to the world and do things according to our accord and not His. There are many times this has happened to me, there are times when I think I have it figured out on my own and make a decision that revolves around myself and what I believe my goals should be; yet, God reminds me in His ways that I need to be walking with Him. Praying, Asking, Trusting.
Our focus should be on Him and not ourselves. When I’m wrong, which I know can be often, I need to confess to God and ask for forgiveness. Absalom was on the fast track to success, but he lacked the most important thing in His life and his leadership. That was a loving, trusting, and submissive relationship with God. If you haven’t had a chance to listen to the last few weeks on Leadership 101 by Mike Baker I highly recommend it. Click: Leadership 101.
As we read through Psalm 47 I’m reminded by the theme God is King of the world. isn’t that awesome news. That no matter our circumstances, God is in control.
This week as we head into Good Friday and Easter Sunday truly focus on Jesus. I’m reminded of the movie Passion of the Christ and even though Jesus was letting His disciples know the end was near for Him, they didn’t believe. Jesus made promises, Jesus kept them. Just like He told them He would die and come back to life, He did. Jesus says He will come back again. He will. He’s Alive! If there is someone that doesn’t know about Jesus coming back again would you let them know?
Have a wonderful day, have a wonderful week. God is King of Kings, Lord of Lords, and His plans include us in closeness with Him. What glorious days!
“These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
References
Picture: Les Très Riches Heures du duc de Berry, Folio 173v – The Entry into Jerusalem the Musée Condé, Chantilly.
David Jeremiah Study Bible
Tyndale Life Application Study Bible