What steps can we take to avoid the mistakes seen in 1 Chronicles 19:6? Learning from 1 Chronicles 19:6 • “When the Ammonites realized that they had become a stench to David…” (1 Chron 19:6) • “Hanun and the Ammonites sent a thousand talents of silver…” (1 Chron 19:6) • They misjudged David’s intentions, let fear drive them, poured resources into worldly defenses, and provoked a needless war. Steps to Guard Our Hearts from the Same Pitfalls • Assume goodwill before suspicion – “Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things” (1 Corinthians 13:7). • Slow down reactions – “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to anger” (James 1:19). • Seek godly counsel, not echo chambers – “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed” (Proverbs 15:22). • Trust God instead of stockpiling human strength – “Some trust in chariots and others in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD” (Psalm 20:7). • Check motives: pride or peace? – “Blessed are the peacemakers” (Matthew 5:9). • Respond with humility even when wronged – “A gentle answer turns away wrath” (Proverbs 15:1). • Commit outcomes to the Lord – “Trust in the LORD with all your heart… He will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6). Practical Action Points This Week • Before answering a text or email, pause long enough to pray for discernment. • Ask a mature believer for perspective before assuming someone’s motives. • Replace anxious “what-ifs” with Scripture memorization—start with Romans 12:18. • Give at least one person the benefit of the doubt and respond kindly. • Review spending: are resources going to self-protection or kingdom purposes? |
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