Our Pastor started the service asking us to pray for our college students and local students going back to school this week. He then introduced his sermon as “Dealing with Absalom” based on the scripture from 2 Samuel 15:1-6. Last week Pastor addressed the spirit of Jezebel.
When you hear a message on Jezebel pray for yourself and others rather than making a list of those you would point fingers at.
John 10:10 “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” Even Christians can operate under the influence of evil spirits. This hurts the church body. We are told: “Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.” Ephesians 5:11.
These evil spirits are active in today's society.
Absalom was under spirits. He killed his half-brother who raped Tamar because David didn't deal with it. Absalom got offended by the action of his half-brother and held onto the offense to redirect the offense and disrespect to his father, King David. Absalom took matters into his own hands.
#1. Don't walk in offense.
When we get offended and stay there, we are taking the bait of Satan. We justify sin by the offense. If we have to justify our behavior, our attitude is wrong. We are not allowing God's justice. Don't step in to try to fix offended parties because they both may reject you!
We have to trust God and take it to Him in prayer.
Beware of offense in marriage, in friendships, in work, in church and in life.
Absalom was in rebellion. This is the equivalent of witchcraft. Rebellion is consistent with bitterness and contention. We can influence others, especially the innocent. Absalom was gathering support for his agenda.
The Church is theocracy not democracy.
Absalom stole the hearts of the people. His actions were undermining his father’s authority.
#2.Resist the devil.
If you have to tear someone down to advance yourself, there is wrong approach.
Don't be impressed or deceived by a leader who is being critical or undermining his or he opposition.
Look what TV programs have done to tear down the respect for parents.
Humble yourself and resist. Seek God's Wisdom and Will.
Cleanse your hands...
#3. Give honor where it is due. Even though King Saul, David’s predecessor was trying to kill David, David honored his King.
In today’s society there is a huge spirit of criticism. And there is much disrespect through social media.
#4. Think on good things. Philippians 4:8. Speak positive and encouraging things…or stay quiet and pray for God to handle it.
I found this song which declares that Fear is Easy, Love is Hard.
Absalom’s Conspiracy
15 In the course of time, Absalom provided himself with a chariot and horses and with fifty men to run ahead of him. 2 He would get up early and stand by the side of the road leading to the city gate. Whenever anyone came with a complaint to be placed before the king for a decision, Absalom would call out to him, “What town are you from?” He would answer, “Your servant is from one of the tribes of Israel.” 3 Then Absalom would say to him, “Look, your claims are valid and proper, but there is no representative of the king to hear you.” 4 And Absalom would add, “If only I were appointed judge in the land! Then everyone who has a complaint or case could come to me and I would see that they receive justice.”
5 Also, whenever anyone approached him to bow down before him, Absalom would reach out his hand, take hold of him and kiss him. 6 Absalom behaved in this way toward all the Israelites who came to the king asking for justice, and so he stole the hearts of the people of Israel.
Lord, Please help me turn to you if I begin to be critical or want to take someone else's position or joy.
