How should Christians respond to personal grievances, based on 2 Samuel 13:23? Setting the Scene “Two full years later, Absalom had shearers in Baal-hazor near Ephraim, and he invited all the king’s sons.” (2 Samuel 13:23) Absalom’s Path: A Warning • Two full years—Absalom lets his grievance simmer rather than seeking righteous resolution. • He outwardly plans a feast, inwardly plans revenge. • His silence is not peace; it is a slow‐cooking bitterness that will end in bloodshed (vv. 28-29). What Grievances Do to the Heart • Bitterness grows when left unattended (Hebrews 12:15). • Anger that is not surrendered turns to plotting (Ephesians 4:26-27). • A wounded spirit can become a trap for others, not just the injured party (Proverbs 18:19). Christ’s Better Way • Forgive “seventy times seven” (Matthew 18:21-22). • Leave room for God’s justice: “Do not avenge yourselves… ‘Vengeance is Mine,’ says the Lord” (Romans 12:19). • Overcome evil with good (Romans 12:21). Practical Steps Toward Christlike Response 1. Acknowledge the hurt honestly before God (Psalm 62:8). 2. Choose forgiveness as an act of obedience, not feeling (Colossians 3:13). 3. Speak truth in love if confrontation is needed (Matthew 18:15). 4. Pray for the offender—by name (Luke 6:27-28). 5. Bless instead of curse (1 Peter 3:9). 6. Seek wise counsel, not echo chambers (Proverbs 11:14). 7. Guard your heart daily; unresolved anger gives the devil a foothold (Ephesians 4:27). Promises to Lean On • “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted” (Psalm 34:18). • “Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7). • “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds” (Psalm 147:3). Closing Encouragement Absalom nursed his grievance for two long years and the cost was catastrophic. We have a different choice: surrender the hurt to the righteous Judge, extend the forgiveness we have received in Christ, and walk in freedom instead of chains. |
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