When Absalom tried to overthrow his father to be king of Israel, David had to flee so as not to face him (2 Samuel 15). Jesus warned us that, before his return, the situation in the world will be like this: Now brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; and children will rise up against parents and cause them to be put to death. (Mark 13.12). What Absalom did is a rehearsal of what is to come to a greater degree, for the devil will act furiously, knowing that he has little time left.

The spirit of rebellion will prevail in homes where children will rebel against everything and everyone, disrespecting their parents' authority, without caring that they won't live long. Many will act in their own interests, but those who bow before the Word will prove that serving Him is the best decision. The only homes that will be left out of the evil perpetrated by their children will be those where the fear of God has been taught and accepted.

The end of those who leave God's presence will be between earth and heaven, as happened to Absalom: Then Absalom met the servants of David. Absalom rode on a mule. The mule went under the thick boughs of a great terebinth tree, and his head caught in the terebinth; so he was left hanging between heaven and earth. And the mule which was under him went on. (2 Samuel 18.9). It's not good to rise up against the Most High!

David left Jerusalem in a hurry because his rebellious son wanted the kingdom at any cost. In order not to face him and see him die in sin, like a wicked man, the king fled to a place determined by God. There, he found three friends who took him in and helped him. Now it happened, when David had come to Mahanaim, that Shobi the son of Nahash from Rabbah of the people of Ammon, Machir the son of Ammiel from Lo Debar, and Barzillai the Gileadite from Rogelim  brought beds and basins, earthen vessels and wheat, barley and flour, parched grain and beans, lentils and parched seeds, honey and curds, sheep and cheese of the herd, for David and the people who were with him to eat. For they said, “The people are hungry and weary and thirsty in the wilderness.” (2 Samuel 17.27-29) The Lord rescued him!

If you find yourself in a similar situation, don't panic. The Most High knows your need before you ask for help, as Jesus said: For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things.  (Matthew 6.32). David sought God's Kingdom first and saw divine action in his life (Matthew 6.33). Take care of the Lord's Kingdom, and He will take care of you!

When giving final advice to Solomon, who would reign in his place, David mentioned those friends who had come to his aid, ordering his successor to be beneficent - the art of doing good - and to place them among those who would eat at his table. David showed this affection towards those who had been used by the Lord to help him. It's good to meditate on this command and do the same for those who are your true friends. Gratitude is good for you!

As for those who turn a blind eye to someone's need, where will they be counted? There will be no mercy for anyone who is not merciful (James 2:13). Always accept the Lord's guidance. He will surely reward you for being a faithful servant!

           In Christ, with love,

           R. R. Soares