SUMMARY: Absalom killed
OVERVIEW: Joab and his men kill Absalom against David’s wishes.
BIG IDEA: Rebellion divides.
KEY VERSE: 2 Samuel 18:33 (David mourns)
The king was overcome with emotion. He went up to the room over the gateway and burst into tears. And as he went, he cried, “O my son Absalom! My son, my son Absalom! If only I had died instead of you! O Absalom, my son, my son.”
IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
Seek me and my wisdom in all situations. If you disagree with your leader, evaluate why. Do your leader’s instructions conflict with mine? Be strong and courageous and continue to follow me, but prepare for consequences. I will be with always. But do you disagree with what your leader wants to do? It is good to have your own opinion, but don’t act on your own without first discussing how you feel with the leader. If he or she disagrees with you, submit and follow through.
However, if your disagreements are frequent, it may be best to find a new team. There may be seasons of differences amongst you, but if it becomes evident that you and the team are going in other directions, finish well and move on. Always seek to bring unity to your group, not disfunction. It is hard enough to follow me and serve with others as one. Be part of the solution, not the problem.
NEXT STEP
Be a team player. How well do you interact with your teammates and team leader? If you have frequent disagreements with the team leader, privately ask him or her how they would like you to address those disagreements. The person’s response will tell you lots about whether or not you’re on the right team.
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