2 Samuel 20 Beginnings Of Rebellion

Clouds on the horizon are beginning to signal trouble for David and for Israel.  No sooner was Absalom defeated and David re-entering Israel than another wannabe began to foment dissent.  Sheba probably sought to lead a combined every-tribe-but-Judah army or possibly even the throne, and he talked the other tribes into going home rather than making the short 20-mile trip with David to Jerusalem to see their king resume his duties.

 

David had made his relative Amasa the commander of the army, replacing and upsetting Joab, since Amasa had supported Absalom in the rebellion and Joab had killed David’s son Absalom despite David’s direct order.  David was probably attempting to unify the country by including the rebels in the reconstituted government.

 

There was too much political intrigue going on.  Joel murdered Amasa and took control again of the army, then chased Sheba to an Israelite city and began attacking it!  The citizens wisely decided that discretion was the better part of valor and tossed Sheba’s freshly-removed head over the wall to stop the attack.  Israelites were beginning to fight Israelites, and that did not portend well for the nation.

 

Father, help me to understand Your wisdom when it comes to people.  Show me Your truth.  Lead me to know Your heart and to take actions only after consulting with You, for I do not have a corner on wisdom.  I cannot fathom motivations.  Only You can.

 

Your Brother In Christ,

Gary Ford