Read 2 Samuel 17-18.
In the past, Ahithophel had been a source of godly counsel to
King David. When Absalom seized the
throne, his loyalties changed quickly.
He suggested that Absalom openly violate his father's concubines to
embarrass David. Ahithophel even devised
a plan to kill David.
Absalom then called for David's friend, Hushai, for a second
opinion. Hushai presented a plan even
more pleasing to Absalom. In 15:34,
David sent Hushai back to Jerusalem
for the very purpose of overthrowing the counsel of Ahithophel. Once the decision was made that Absalom would
lead the battle against his own father, Hushai sent word to warn David. Ahithophel soon realized that his counsel was
no longer of value. Sensing all was lost,
he committed suicide.
David may have been older, but his experience as a warrior
and leader proved to be no match for any opposition. He organized his men and prepared for
battle. In spite of all that had
happened, he asked for mercy for his son, Absalom. Twenty thousand men died. Apparently it did not take long for Absalom
to run from the battle and be killed by Joab.
There is no way that this story could have had a happy
ending. Rebellion against God and
God-given authority will always bring punitive consequences.
When Samuel told Saul that God had rejected him from being
king due his open disobedience, he said, "For rebellion is as the sin of
divination (witchcraft)." (1 Samuel 15:23a)
Humility, submission to and respect for authority are
hallmarks of one who lives to please God.
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