2 Samuel 16
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2 Samuel 16:20-23, Absalom said to Ahithophel, “Give us your advice. What should we do?”
Ahithophel answered, “Sleep with your father’s concubines whom he left to take care of the palace. Then all Israel will hear that you have made yourself obnoxious to your father, and the hands of everyone with you will be more resolute.” So they pitched a tent for Absalom on the roof, and he slept with his father’s concubines in the sight of all Israel. Now in those days the advice Ahithophel gave was like that of one who inquires of God. That was how both David and Absalom regarded all of Ahithophel’s advice.
David is fleeing Jerusalem with his entire household. He encounters both help and support (Ziba offers donkeys and large quantities of food) and he faces violence and opposition (from Shimel, a Saulite). Please be sure to read through the whole text for the specifics. One can only imagine how arduous the travel would be. It’s interesting though. There is still nothing in the Scripture about David asking the Lord for direction or help.
David is leaving Jerusalem while his son Absalom is arriving in the palace. Absalom, who has just successfully carried out a bloodless coup, decides to ask advice from Ahithophel how to ensure his grip on the throne and the palace. Keep in mind that at one time Ahithophel was one of King David’s most trusted advisors but he turned against David. Ahithophel felt betrayed by King David, as Bathsheba was his granddaughter; David brought shame to his family. Nevertheless, he gives Absalom some pretty bad advice, telling him to sleep with his father’s concubines on the roof of the palace for all of Israel to see. Maybe Ahithophel thought this was retribution, an eye for an eye. But it also violated God’s law. Anger and bitterness have a way of making people make terrible decisions and give horrible advice.
I’m wondering if there is something in your life right now, a lingering anger or bitterness, that needs to be given to God. You see, without us even realizing it, these feelings of rage and resentment can eat at us and create a wedge between us and God. They can color our view of the world. What do you need to give to God today?
Let’s pray…Lord of All, You are a good and merciful God. Forgive us for the things we allow to seep into our hearts and lives. Help us give these things to you and trust you with them. More of you and less of me, Jesus. In Your Name, Amen.