2 Samuel 16; Psalm 115; Romans 16

 June 16: We walk in such a hostile and deceptive world; and we need good counsel. Everyone has a bold critic like Shimei in their lives, and a subtle flatterer like Ziba. There are always opportunities to be drawn aside into a false way. It’s why we need to be in the Word daily, seeking counsel of the Lord, and the wisdom to apply it to life.


2 Samuel 16: In chapter, we see David passively accepting the cursing of Shimei, taking it that it is God’s judgment on him. Is he right in this assumption? How about the assistance of Ziba? Is it genuine? When we come to know a little more about the story of Mephibosheth, it seems Ziba is currying favor with David. In 2 Samuel 9:2-12, it appears Ziba had taken over everything that belonged to Saul, and David restored it to Mephibosheth and made him a servant again. We find in 2 Samuel 19:24-30 that it was a slanderous report, and Mephibosheth was very grieved that David had gone into exile. If Hushai the Archite had remained with David, would he have been more discerning with both Shimei and Ziba? Possibly, but David’s wisdom was shown in that he trusted Hushai’s presence in Jerusalem was an answer to his prayer, for David knew how wise Ahithophel was and Absalom did not. (2 Samuel 16:20-23)

Psalm 115: In what way are “they that make them” (idols) “like unto them; so is everyone that trusteth in them”? The Psalmist has been talking about the sovereign power of God compared to the gods of the heathen, noting that although the have “mouths,” “eyes,” “ears,” “noses,” “hands” and “feet,” they are impotent. Anyone who trusts in an idol to do something has likewise rendered himself impotent. By contrast, those who trust in the LORD find Him to be a help and shield.

Romans 16: What would Christendom be like if Romans 16:17, such a simple instruction, had been strictly followed? We wouldn’t have gnostics, liberals or legalists. How “fair speeches” have deceived so many in the past 2,000 years! I likewise wish we were all wise about the good and simple about evil.

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