Reading for today
Old Testament: 2 Samuel 16, 17, 18
New Testament: Acts 6
Thoughts from today’s reading
2 Samuel 17:23. The uprising against David was as a result of his sin and the judgement that followed it. Ahitophel happened to be the grandfather of Bathsheba (2 Samuel 11:3, 23:34) and it seems he was offended at what David did to her and her husband. When he saw his advice was not taken, he went and hung himself. Absalom was also offended with David because he did not do anything about the rape of his sister. Absalom also perished in the battle against the king.
These two men should not have faced death if David did not trigger these events by his sin, however, Jesus said offences will come and we should beware of offences. Woe will be to the one that causes the offence, but we have a responsibility not to allow the offence in our heart otherwise just like these two men, we can get on a path of death for keeping offence.
Acts 6:1-7. When the church chose its first deacons to serve the people, they looked for men with 3 traits; A good reputation, full of the Holy Ghost and full of wisdom. Reputation came first on the list. Our character as moulded by God should be our first qualification for service and not our anointing. Reputation is important and we must do what is required to build it and maintain it in a good conscience and by the grace of God.
Prayer
1. Heavenly Father, when offences come, may I be quick to recognise it and deal with it promptly so that it does not take root in my heart. Jesus you said that we should not allow offences to stay in us but by forgiveness we should keep it away from our hearts. I release forgiveness to anyone who has caused offence to me and I ask that your mercy will prevail over them. Judgement is yours O Lord, so I trust you to take care of the situation while I experience your peace.
2. Lord by the grace of God may I build on my character as I do what you have instructed in your word. Let me not rely on the anointing to qualify me for service, but rather to enable me to serve. You have qualified me by the sacrifice of Jesus and you expect that I walk in the righteousness of Christ which you give me the grace to do. Thank you Lord for helping me build and maintain a good reputation in Jesus’ name.