Those who nurse an unforgiving spirit risk their credibility and integrity. David refused to forgive and even see his son, Absalom, after he killed his half-brother, Amnon. You will see a case example of an offended and disrespected Absalom lie, seek revenge and rebel against David’s authority as king. Those who don’t forgive experience heartache like David and must respond boldly to overcome the consequences caused by offenses like with Absalom. Let’s observe the consequences and dangers caused by offenses and how to respond in a God-honoring way.
Consequences
Absalom ruled positively on all judgments saying that David wasn’t listening to David’s subjects. Absalom said that someone should appoint him judge so he could bring justice. Absalom stole away the hearts of Israel (2 Sam. 15:1-6). The offended party seeks respect and position at the expense of the one who wouldn’t forgive him or her.
He asked permission from David to pay a vow in Hebron. Instead, Absalom sent spies throughout Israel to proclaim him king in Hebron. The conspiracy became strong when he sent for Ahithophel, David’s counselor, while many people followed Absalom (2 Sam. 15:7-12). The offended party uses lies, plots and conspiracy to overthrow the one who wouldn’t forgive him or her.
Response
When a messenger informed David of the conspiracy, he left Jerusalem except for 10 concubines to keep house. All his servants passed on beside him, including 600 men from Gath (2 Sam. 15:13-18). Forceful action and support of faithful friends protect you from conspiracy.
Ittai the Gittite wanted to stay with David regardless of the consequences. Israel wept with loud voices as all the people passed over toward the wilderness (2 Sam. 15:19-23). Mourning and weeping provide emotional support during a conspiracy.
Zadok and the Levites carried the ark of the covenant of God. David told Zadok to return the ark to Jerusalem figuring that if he found the Lord’s favor, he would be back, but could trust Him to do good. He told Zadok to return while David would wait by the wilderness for his word of guidance (2 Sam. 15:24-29). Listen to God’s word for direction in the midst of a conspiracy.
David and all the people wept and covered their heads as they ascended the Mount of Olives. David prayed that the Lord would make Ahithophel’s counsel foolishness. As David came to the summit where God was worshiped, Hushai met him. David told Hushai that by returning to Jerusalem, he could thwart Ahithophel’s counsel by pretending to be Absalom’s servant. He would report everything to Zadok and Abiathar the priests. Their two sons would be messengers for David (2 Sam. 15:30-37). Pray for God’s intervention to thwart a conspiracy.
Is someone offended because you have an unforgiving spirit toward them? Forgive them. Is someone rebelling against your authority because you have disrespected them? Listen to God and the counsel of trusted friends to know what to do and pray together for an outcome that glorifies Him.
