Read it!: II Samuel 13
Absalom fled and went to Talmai son of Ammihud, the king of Geshur.
But King David mourned for his son every day.
Think it through:
II Samuel 13 describes a history of absolutely miserable family dysfunction: the sons and daughters of King David committing terrible crimes against one another, from rape to murder. It’s a sad chapter to read, and must have been an infinitely sadder chapter to live as King David. As brave as he was against Goliath and other military foes, David was completely unable (or unwilling) to deal with his family.
How my heart cries out to the Lord for protection over my children when I read this passage! And when I think of David weeping so bitterly and mourning every day, I ask for wisdom for myself. There are so many ways that I want to be like David, but frankly I want to be an infinitely better parent than he was.
I want to be aware of what my children are up to. (vs 3,4, 26)
I want to advise them to make Godly choices, so they won’t be led astray by bad counsel. (vs 5)
I want to discipline them when they do wrong, not sweep their sins under the rug. (vs 21,22)
I want to help them to avoid the chain reaction of bad choices. (vs 32)
And I know I can’t do it alone.
Live it like you mean it:
Set aside ten minutes today to spend in prayer over your children (and grandchildren, if you have them). Ask the Lord to reveal to your heart anything that you might be missing, any yellow flag that should be a bright red one. Jot down any concerns that come to you… then face them head on, with the Lord at your side.
I’m taking my prayer time this afternoon!
Lift it up:
Oh Lord, my heart is so heavy after reading this portion of Your Word. Please use it as a wake-up call to my heart. Help me to be an aware, involved, just, and fair parent. Please protect my children from bad counsel and help their decision-making to be based in Your truth. I know only You can work these things in our hearts, Lord. Amen.
Tell Me About It:
What are some of the things you pray over your children?
Join the Conversation on Facebook!