Today’s reading: 2 Samuel 3:26-39
When someone wrongs us or hurts us badly, we want justice. We want the situation righted. But sometimes our desire for perceived justice becomes so strong that it takes on an unhealthy life of its own by turning into a blinding force for revenge.
Joab and Abishai are intent on settling the score with Abner for killing their brother. They want Abner dead. So much so that even after learning that King David has joined forces with Abner to solidify his rule over all of Israel (something very important for their people and nation), they refuse to turn from their vengeful thinking. So behind David’s back, they take matters into their own hands to ambush and kill Abner.
What a vivid picture of the harm and damage that can be done when we don’t properly acknowledge and deal with our anger and grief, and make a point keep our emotions, words and actions in check.
What did God impress on your heart about holding grudges, revenge, anger and/or hatred after reading this passage? Identify some of the dangers of holding on to anger? How do we guard against giving in to the powerful temptation to get revenge? Tami
Source: Tami’s Blog
