March 17

2 Samuel 14

There are some people who learn best from stories that have analogies. You know, those stories where a situation is described, a question is asked, the answer is obvious, a lesson is taught – BUT then reality hits! The obvious answer and the lesson being taught apply to you!

It was so easy to see the obvious as an outsider listening to the story – BUT when you are living it, it is not so easy. We rationalize, justify, and make excuses for our wrong decisions and poor behavior.

Jesus taught this way. Nathan convicted David about Bathsheba in this way. And, now, here we go again. David is about to learn ANOTHER lesson.

As a young boy, David stepped up and confronted Goliath because he was against God, yet as a father, David has not been able to deal with the sin of his sons. David did not deal with Amnon’s sin against Tamar which led to Absalom taking revenge. Absalom sins and kills Amnon, and once again David is silent.

David did not confront Absalom and punish him, nor did he insist on a confession and repentance. Now there is a national problem that Joab, David’s nephew and military leader, sees. Absalom is next in line to the throne. David’s lack of action in his family is weakening Israel. Joab urges David (through a story) to recognize the importance of restoring Absalom and continuing the family line to the throne.

However, even after Absalom was allowed to return. David ignored the problem. Finally, Absalom forced the issue – either he would be punished or reconciled. Even as David chose to reconcile him, David did not discuss with Absalom his poor choices. David’s weak parenting left Absalom without discipline and direction which later would send Absalom down a very dark path – and David’s heart would be broken.

Parents:
Do you stand firm in redirecting your child’s behavior?
Do you allow your child to face the consequences of his/her poor decisions or do you constantly make excuses or bail him/her out?

Teens:
Do you despise your parent’s discipline?
Do you envy friends who have parents who are not strict?

“My son, obey your father’s commands, and don’t neglect your mother’s instruction. Keep their words always in your heart. Tie them around your neck. When you walk, their counsel will lead you. When you sleep, they will protect you. When you wake up, they will advise you. For their command is a lamp and their instruction a light;
their corrective discipline is the way to life.” Proverbs 6:20-23