May 11, 2013 (2 Samuel 19-20; Psalm 55; Matthew 28 )
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “There happened to be a troublemaker there named Sheba son of Bicri, a man from the tribe of Benjamin. Sheba blew a ram’s horn and began to chant: “Down with the dynasty of David! We have no interest in the son of Jessie. Come on, you men of Israel, back to your homes!” 2 Samuel 20:1 NLT
Observation: First the men of Israel were upset because the tribe of Judah had “stolen” the king and didn’t give them the honor of helping take the king, his household and all his men across the Jordan when he was fleeing. Now that the king is returning they continue to dwell on events that have passed instead of helping him return. Even in victories there seems to always be a troublemaker. One that is never satisfied or happy about anything. Sheba stirs up the men of Israel and leads them to abandon David and not help escort the king back to Jerusalem. The men of Judah helped David when he fled and they remained faithful to escort him back to Jerusalem when he returned.
Application: Those that cause trouble are inevitable. They seem to always be present, leading people to do things they would not normally do. We must be careful whom we follow. We must think for ourselves and seek God concerning direction. We must learn to give of ourselves without always looking for the honor for ourselves. How much more honorable would the men of Israel had been if they would have put aside their desire for honor and just acted honorable? They were hungry for honor from the tribe of Judah, yet their very own actions are what brought dishonor to them! The fate of the troublemaker is never good. In the end Sheba lost his head, but in reality he had already lost his head when he began to chant, “Down with the dynasty of David…”
Prayer: Dear Lord thank You for this day. Thank You for Your mercy and grace that provide and protect me every day. Thank You for Your word that guides and teaches. Help me be the man You desire me to be. Show me the right path to walk and lead me by Your Spirit. I need direction Lord, what shall I do? Stand and fight or turn the other cheek and forgive, help me know, in Jesus name, Amen!