THE STORY OF JESUS: 2 Samuel 18-20
“You don’t have any news that will bring you a reward.” (2 Samuel 18:22)
Ahimaaz hoped to bring good news to David; Joab knew David wouldn’t be happy.
For it was difficult good news, good news that included bad news.
As Jesus followers, we are also bearers of good news that includes bad news.
The good news of the kingdom is that Satan and sin are defeated.
But the bad news is that this means we have to let go of Satan and sin.
Satan and sin are destroying us, yet like David we grieve to lose what we love.
We don’t love Satan directly, but we do love what he offers (sinful, selfish pleasure).
Our lives, like the drama of David’s life, is a twisted mess of good and evil.
Something in me must die – the old life – if I want to enjoy salvation – the new life!
Repentance is hard, but its reward is so much better than anything sin can offer.
We can’t hide the bad news when we share good news to make people feel good.
Is there reward in telling people that they are sinners in need of grace and mercy.
Yes, if their eyes are opened and they see their desperate condition for what it is!
If like Shimei (19:19-23) we admit our guilt, we too can be forgiven and restored.
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, today’s story reminds me of the bad news in my own life. Thank You that the news of Your mercy overcomes the news of my sin.
David cried regarding his son Absalom. This son of his had opposed God’s anointed. This is contrary to the Word of the Lord. No wonder David cried out with such sorrow.
We/I need to learn from the past the valuable lessons they have. If I can’t remember the past then I will repeat my errors, my mistakes, my wanderings.
And today, what about God’s people and their wanderings? Are we steadily drifting away from our religious backgrounds? Are we becoming like the world around us and not being a separate people? God’s people?
I look at the developments in the various churches and also their attendance. I look at what is happening with the gift of Christian education. The people are wandering. What am I doing to teach the next generation about His kingdom?
I could have no greater joy than to hear that my children are following the truth.
The joy of the Lord is my strength
The joy of the Lord is my strength
The joy of the Lord i my strength
The joy of the Lord is my strength
If you want joy you must sing for it
If you want joy you must shout for it
If you want joy you must jump for it
The joy of the Lord is my strength