There is no more interesting narration in all the Bible than the story of David and his Son Absalom. Nor are there any that portray more forcibly the prospects of “like father – like Son” disposition in some of Absalom’s conduct. David’s terrible sin of adultery with Uriah’s wife may have had much to do in fostering the pride and self-confidence in the character of his son. Absalom’s natural advantages were great and favorable. “There was none to be so much praised as Absalom for his beauty: “From the sole of his foot even to the crown of his head there was no blemish in him.” (2 Sam. 14:25). What a terrible contrast when we turn to the spiritual character, for “From the sole of the foot even unto the head there was no soundness in it.” (Isa. 1:6). Having good parents or bad does not necessarily make or mar true nobility of character, but a favorable start may count for much in the race of life. Absalom had a wide door of opportunity opened unto him because of his ability to “Win friends and influence people” (2 Sam. 15:6). However, God does not look on the outward appearance as man does, God looks at the heart of a man!
Two years previously Absalom had a sister that was defamed and abused by a half-brother (2 Sam. 13), and Absalom’s cold-blooded murder of this half-brother after two full years had passed by reveals a dogged and remorseless spirit (2 Sam.14:23-38). There is danger in any man’s life when he allows hate and anger to reside in his heart, for out of the heart are the issues of life!
After the murder Absalom fled to Geshur to escape the wrath of his father, but after several years absence he regained the favor of his father through the influence of his cousin Joab (2 Sam. 14:33). Absalom returned home with every opportunity to begin anew and to make up for some of his misspent life – but will he do it? There are only two paths to walk in this life – one is narrow and leads to eternal life, the other is broad and wide and leads to condemnation. Which will Absalom choose?
We do not have to wait long for the answer, “After this Absalom prepared him chariots and horses, and fifty men to run before him. “ (2 Sam.15:1-6) (Remember his ability to influence men by his smooth speech!) The forgiving grace of his father seemed to have little or no effect upon his heart. Our Father has manifested his grace and offered His forgiveness to all – but how few are interested!
Absalom provoked an open rebellion against his dear and loving father. He instructed his men to shout, “Absalom reigns.” The hypocritical mask is thrown off, and the secret purposes of his heart are revealed. He declared himself an enemy to the throne of his father, and an aspirant for the position and authority of the king. A many a man has declared himself an enemy of God and finally come out from behind his camouflage when he believes his opportunity has come. Surely David paid a great price for his foolish sins! Betrayed by his own friend Ahithophel, and pursued by his own son, what a ghastly sight! The following day the battle ensued and was fought in the wood of Ephraim: ”the people of Israel were slain before the servants of David. . . twenty thousand men. “
David’s son was commander of one side of men, and was soundly defeated. He rode away on a mule into the woods to escape David, but, alas, the head of pride and beauty was caught between two branches of an oak and there he died suspended between heaven and earth.
Perhaps David now realizes what he should have realized before, that instead of being concerned with some other man’s wife he should have been home teaching his own son! David’s sins were many, but his remorse at the death of Absalom is pitiful. Hear him, “O my Son Absalom! would God I had died for thee, O Absalom, my son, my son!” (2 Sam. 18:33) We suppose a many a man has lived to regret the sins of his youth and the neglect of his family. Truly David expressed great concern for his son as he gave orders to his army – but that concern was much too late to correct Absalom’s wicked life.
If you have a son (or daughter) give him the best part of yourself today! Tomorrow may be too late. If you are too busy to give your son an hour and a half of your time each day – you are TOO BUSY!! And remember God’s great love for you -and how about a little concern for God in your life?
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