How should we respond when receiving uncertain news, as seen in 2 Samuel 18:29? Setting the Scene David is anxiously awaiting word about the outcome of the battle and, most of all, the safety of his son Absalom. Ahimaaz arrives breathless, yet his report is incomplete: “Then the king asked, ‘Is the young man Absalom all right?’ And Ahimaaz answered, ‘I saw a great tumult when Joab sent the king’s servant and me your servant, but I do not know what it was.’” (2 Samuel 18:29) Observing the Verse • David seeks clarity: “Is the young man Absalom all right?” • Ahimaaz only offers what he truly knows: “I do not know.” • No speculation, no embellishment—just honest limitation. Principles for Responding to Uncertain News • Exercise restraint – Like Ahimaaz, refuse to invent details. Proverbs 18:13: “He who answers a matter before he hears it, it is folly and shame to him.” • Admit what you don’t know – Humility preserves credibility and protects others from confusion. • Seek truth patiently – David waits for a fuller report (v. 30). Psalm 37:7: “Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for Him.” • Anchor in God’s sovereignty – Even before facts arrive, rest in the Lord who “works all things according to the counsel of His will” (Ephesians 1:11). • Guard your heart from fear – Philippians 4:6-7 calls us to present anxieties to God and receive His peace. • Allow time for confirmation – The Cushite soon follows (vv. 31-32) with the full account. Multiple witnesses secure accuracy (Deuteronomy 19:15). Applying the Principles Today • News headlines, medical results, job rumors—treat all partial reports with calm deliberation. • Pause before forwarding a text or reposting a link; confirm the facts. • Encourage others to wait with you on the Lord; resist pressure to fill the silence with speculation. • Speak only what you know, and say “I don’t know yet” when that is all you can honestly offer. • Spend the waiting moments in Scripture meditation: Psalm 112:7, “He will not fear bad news; his heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD.” Supporting Scriptures • James 1:19: “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” • Isaiah 26:3: “You will keep in perfect peace the steadfast mind, because he trusts in You.” • Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding.” Takeaway When news is uncertain, respond with honest restraint, patient truth-seeking, and unwavering trust in God’s sovereign care. |
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