2 Samuel Chapter 15

As the character of Absalom unfolds, let us consider what can we learn from his actions, and attitude. Do we see similarities in our own attitudes and behaviours when faced with the demands and pressures of life? How do we realign our thoughts and behave in a manner pleasing to God?

Sin and Fleeing

Absalom’s pre-meditated murder of his half-brother Amnon (2 Sam 13:22-29) resulted in him fleeing from home. He never once sought his father’s forgiveness on this matter.

Although David was very angry, he ‘mourned for his son every day’, and ‘longed to go to Absalom’ (2 Sam 13:37, 39).

“The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are bold as a lion.”

(Prov 28:1)

Do we recall a time when our own wickedness caused us to run and hide? The times when we do not seek repentance, and forgiveness, but choose to escape. Why?

Rather than seek ways to cover up or run away, we need to build ourselves up, and uncover the heart and intentions of our Father, who longs for us to turn back from our wicked thoughts and actions, and return to Him.

Sin and Wickedness Increased

On Joab’s prompting, David granted Absalom concession to return to Jerusalem after 3 years away from home. We soon see in this chapter that after a further 2 years in Jerusalem, there was little to no improvement in Absalom’s attitude and ways.

After 5 years away, he sought his father’s attendance with no intention of seeking reconciliation, but for his own benefit, such that he could return to further his deceitful ploy.

Similar to the last time when he carefully plotted to kill his brother, Absalom was not slipshod in his plan to overthrow his father’s position. He smeared his father’s name and his work with lies, and cunningly succeeded in gaining the support and trust of the people (2 Sam 15:2-12).

Do What is Right in the Eyes of our Lord God

“that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting”

(Eph 4:14)

Where do our hearts lie today? (Lk 12:34)

If we had met Absalom, would our hearts be ‘stolen’ by him? (2 Sam 15:6)

Conversely, are we to some extent like Absalom, who manipulated people and situations cleverly for his own gain?

Today, we may be more clever, worldly-wise, cosmopolitan and shrewd, and these qualities will no doubt land us a better standing in life. Added to these, a little wit and the ability to carry ourselves well, and we will go ‘far’. Like Absalom, have we ever pretended to be concerned about the welfare of others, spoken empty words, or flattered others in order to gain for ourselves a better standing with them?

Underneath our polished exteriors, when we truly examine ourselves, what do we see? What character and traits will enable us to have a better standing with God? Will our actions be accepted and approved by Him on the last day?

We are created in Christ’s image and our lives depend on God. Let us examine our motives and do what is right. We seek to please God and no other.

May we be guided by His words.

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