Last week we discussed the scandal involving King David, Bathsheba and Uriah.
After David was caught and confronted about his sin, he admitted he was wrong and sought God for forgiveness. God forgave him, but God also made it very clear that his actions would have severe consequences. And boy, were the consequences severe!!
Read 2 Samuel 13-16. This section of Scripture is filled with drama, scheming, terrible parenting, scandal, rape, murder, treason, and betrayal. It is a lot to take in!
On Sunday, I am going to zero in on the story about David and Shimei, as told in 16:5-14. As David flees Jerusalem due to a coup led by one of his sons, Shimei throws stones at him while spewing curses at him. One of David's most loyal warriors asks for permission to remove Shimei's head. David says no. David said no because he figured God rebuked him through Shimei's words. David knew he messed up. David knew he had failed. David refuses to defend himself.
I want us to wrestle with the question of how we respond to criticism from others. How do we respond when people point out our flaws and failures? As you read this section of Scripture, what do you learn about God's character? Can you relate to anyone in the story? Is God speaking to you about anything in your own life?
