Podcasts about Absalom

How do we go from seasons of divine purpose to a path marked by despair? Pastor Dave invites us to delve deep into the story of Ahithophel, a man whose life spiraled from being a revered oracle of God to one consumed by bitterness and grief. In this enlightening sermon, Pastor examines 2 Samuel 16-17, highlighting how Ahithophel, once sought for his wise counsel, succumbed to a bitter heart after witnessing the sins of King David against his family. His tragic end serves as a striking reminder of the silent, destructive power of unforgiveness. Pastor Dave passionately underscores that the bitterness we carry not only affects our spiritual journey but ultimately robs us of our destiny, urging the congregation to self-reflect on their own grievances. Are you carrying bitterness that prevents you from fulfilling your purpose? This poignant message resonates deeply with anyone struggling to let go of past hurts, offering hope and guidance towards forgiveness. Join us on this transformative journey of healing and freedom, and don't miss the chance to receive the wisdom that could set you free. Watch or listen to the full sermon today and take the first step toward liberation!2 Samuel 16:23 Now the advice of Ahithophel, which he gave in those days, was as if one had inquired at the oracle of God. So was all the advice of Ahithophel both with David and with Absalom.2 Samuel 17:23 Now when Ahithophel saw that his advice was not followed, he saddled a donkey, and arose and went home to his house, to his city. Then he put his household in order, and hanged himself, and died; and he was buried in his father's tomb.2 Samuel 11:11 It happened in the spring of the year, at the time when kings go out to battle, that David sent Joab and his servants with him, and all Israel; and they destroyed the people of Ammon and besieged Rabbah. But David remained at Jerusalem.2 Then it happened one evening that David arose from his bed and walked on the roof of the king's house. And from the roof he saw a woman bathing, and the woman was very beautiful to behold. 3 So David sent and inquired about the woman. And someone said, “Is this not [a]Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam, the wife of Uriah the Hittite?” 4 Then David sent messengers, and took her; and she came to him, and he lay with her, for she was cleansed from her impurity; and she returned to her house. 5 And the woman conceived; so she sent and told David, and said, “I am with child.”Vs 27 after Bathsheba mourned David took her in his house and married herAnd this displeased the lord what David had done2 Samuel 11:3 So David sent and inquired about the woman. And someone said, “Is this not Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam, the wife of Uriah the Hittite?”2 Samuel 23:34 Eliphelet the son of Ahasbai, the son of the Maachathite, Eliam the son of Ahithophel the Gilonite, 35 Hezrai the Carmelite, Paarai the Arbite,Psalm 51:1 Have mercy upon me, O God, According to Your lovingkindness;According to the multitude of Your tender mercies,Blot out my transgressions. 2 Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity,And cleanse me from my sin. 3 For I acknowledge my transgressions,And my sin is always before me. 4 Against You, You only, have I sinned,And done this evil in Your sight—

Teacher: Adam Barnett2 Samuel 16:5-8 – As King David approached Bahurim, a man from the same clan as Saul's family came out from there. His name was Shimei son of Gera, and he cursed as he came out. He pelted David and all the king's officials with stones, though all the troops and the special guard were on David's right and left. As he cursed, Shimei said, “Get out, get out, you murderer, you scoundrel! The Lord has repaid you for all the blood you shed in the household of Saul, in whose place you have reigned. The Lord has given the kingdom into the hands of your son Absalom. You have come to ruin because you are a murderer!”“Few offenses plunge deeper into our flesh than false accusations, particularly when they're hurled at us when we are vulnerable.” – Charles SwindollCan you relate to David in this story… because you've been mistreated and falsely accused?2 Samuel 16:9-12 – Then Abishai son of Zeruiah said to the king, “Why should this dead dog curse my lord the king? Let me go over and cut off his head.” But the king said, “What does this have to do with you, you sons of Zeruiah? If he is cursing because the Lord said to him, ‘Curse David,' who can ask, ‘Why do you do this?'” David then said to Abishai and all his officials, “My son, my own flesh and blood, is trying to kill me. How much more, then, this Benjamite! Leave him alone; let him curse, for the Lord has told him to. It may be that the Lord will look upon my misery and restore to me his covenant blessing instead of his curse today.”Can you relate to Abishai… because your instinct in a situation was to retaliate?2 Samuel 16:13-14 – So David and his men continued along the road while Shimei was going along the hillside opposite him, cursing as he went and throwing stones at him and showering him with dirt. The king and all the people with him arrived at their destination exhausted. And there he refreshed himself.2 Samuel 19:15, 18b-23 – Then the king returned and went as far as the Jordan. When Shimei son of Gera crossed the Jordan, he fell prostrate before the king and said to him, “May my lord not hold me guilty. Do not remember how your servant did wrong on the day my lord the king left Jerusalem. May the king put it out of his mind. For I your servant know that I have sinned, but today I have come here as the first from the tribes of Joseph to come down and meet my lord the king.” Then Abishai son of Zeruiah said, “Shouldn't Shimei be put to death for this? He cursed the Lord's anointed.” David replied, “What does this have to do with you, you sons of Zeruiah? What right do you have to interfere? Should anyone be put to death in Israel today? Don't I know that today I am king over Israel?” So the king said to Shimei, “You shall not die.” And the king promised him on oath.Can you relate to Shimei in this story… because you've hurt someone and need to make it right?1 Kings 2:8-9 (paraphrased) – “And remember, you have with you Shimei … who called down bitter curses on me … When he came down to meet me at the Jordan, I swore to him by the Lord: ‘I will not put you to death by the sword.' But now, do not consider him innocent. You are a man of wisdom; you will know what to do to him. Bring his gray head down to the grave in blood.”Can you relate to David, because you're holding on to bitterness for hurt you've experienced?“David at his best, and at his worst, is one of ourselves. David is a man of like passions with ourselves. David held back his bad passions at Saul, and at Shimei, and at Joab, occasion after occasion, until we were almost worshipping David. But, all the time, and all unknown to us, they were there.” – Alexander Whyte1 - EXPECT FOR PEOPLE TO THROW STONESGalatians 1:10 – Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.2 - BE CAREFUL WHO YOU LISTEN TO3 - FORGIVENESS IS ALWAYS A GOOD CHOICEColossians 3:13 – Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.“When you forgive the person who hurt you deeply and unfairly, you perform a miracle that has no equal.” – Lewis Smedes

Time for mishnah bet of our Nazir journey and this time it's all about the archetypical Nazirites, Samson and Absalom. Also featured: misogyny, angels, tired wives, names of the unknowable and fatal haircuts. Catch Shel Maala in England here: http://bit.ly/sadehsleepless To ask us questions, text or leaves us a voicemail at the Talmud Hotline at 401-484-1619 or email us at xaihowareyou@gmail.com. Support us on patreon at patreon.com/xaihowareyou. Music by Ben Schreiber.

David cries out to the LORD for deliverance from his foes as he flees from Absalom. These foes argue theologically against David—how can God be David's Savior if David is having to run away? David takes refuge in the LORD, who is present on His holy hill. The LORD's presence gives protection to David and all the LORD's people. Because salvation is the LORD's, His people are assured of His blessing.  Rev. John Bussman, pastor at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Cullman, AL, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Psalm 3.  To learn more about St. Paul's, visit stpaulscullman.com. Join Sharper Iron this summer to study selected Psalms. In the Psalter, God speaks His Word to us and teaches us how to speak back to Him in prayer. Even in the great variety of the Psalms, each one points us to our Savior, Jesus Christ.  Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org

Welcome to Daily Devotion with Pastor Balla for July 10, 2025. Today's devotion, “Many Are My Foes” from Psalm 3:1–2, reflects David's honest cry in the face of overwhelming adversity. As he fled from Absalom, his own son, David was surrounded by enemies and slander. His foes not only threatened his life but also questioned his salvation: “There is no salvation for him in God.”But David turns not to despair—but to prayer. In the midst of betrayal and fear, he cries to the Lord who hears. This psalm reminds us that even when the voices of doubt rise, God remains faithful. And ultimately, it points us to Jesus, who was surrounded by enemies on the cross yet triumphed over sin and death for us.

The Relic Radio Show begins with The Adventures Of The Falcon this week. We'll hear The Case Of The Rich Racketeer, from November 5, 1950. (29:12) Next is Gunsmoke with its story from March 7, 1953, Absalom. https://traffic.libsyn.com/forcedn/e55e1c7a-e213-4a20-8701-21862bdf1f8a/RelicRadio953.mp3 Download RelicRadio953 | Subscribe | Spotify | Support The Relic Radio Show

ALC Recommends: “Could You Not Tarry One Hour” by Larry Lea“And at the end of four years Absalom said to the king, “Please let me go and pay my vow, which I have vowed to the Lord, in Hebron.”- ‭‭2 Samuel‬ ‭15‬:‭7‬ ‭ESV‬‬

In this sermon pastor Joel considers Absalom's return to Jerusalem and his plans to become king, reminding us that our way ends in lies and death and that only Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. Ultimately, we can be encouraged to know that Jesus is a king who does not flatter, who does not fail his people, and who does not flee.

Are you chasing purpose—or chasing applause? In this episode, we unpack what it really means to be driven by ambition vs directed by God's vision. Through the cautionary story of Absalom and the faithful example of David, we explore how ambition often starts in pain and ends in pride. You'll learn:How selfish ambition masks itself as visionWhy obedience is greater than opticsHow to discern God's whisper over culture's shoutWhether you're a young leader, creative, pastor, or student—this episode speaks to the tension of leading in a noisy world.

Today's Scripture passages are 2 Samuel 18 | Psalm 26 | Luke 19:1-27.Read by Ekemini Uwan.Get in The Word with Truth's Table is a production of InterVarsity Press. For 75 years, IVP has published and created thoughtful Christian books for the university, church, and the world. Our Bible reading plan is adapted from Bible Study Together, and the Bible version is the New English Translation, used by permission.SPECIAL OFFER | As a listener of this podcast, use the code IVPOD25 for 25% off any IVP resource mentioned in this episode at ivpress.com.Additional Credits:Song production: Seaux ChillSong lyrics written by: Seaux Chill, Ekemini Uwan, and Christina EdmondsonPodcast art: Kate LillardPhotography: Shelly EveBible consultant: JM SmithSound engineering: Podastery StudiosCreative producers: Ekemini Uwan and Christina EdmondsonAssistant producer: Christine Pelliccio MeloExecutive producer: Helen LeeDisclaimer: The comments, views, and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and/or the guests featured on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of InterVarsity Press or InterVarsity Christian Fellowship.

Psalm 63, written while David was in the wilderness of Judah, fleeing from Absalom's murderous coup, reveals David's deep longing for intimacy with God. Exiled from tabernacle worship, he knew that intimacy was still possible, and he offers some counsel for all who, like him, seek, thirst, and faint for intimacy with God. We consider this Psalm under four broad headings: 1. Desire God Genuinely (v. 1) 2. Seek God Corporately (vv. 2–4) 3. Be Satisfied with God Privately (vv. 5–8) 4. Celebrate God Consistently (vv. 9–11)

 Are you mighty in appearance, but meager in substance? What was behind Absalom's downfall? Do you struggle with insecurity? In today's episode, Jeff shares how 2 Samuel 18:1-18 reminds us that God is mighty in appearance and mighty in substance. If you're listening on Spotify, tell us about yourself and where you're listening from! Read the Bible with us in 2025! This year, we're exploring the Historical Books—Joshua, Judges, 1 & 2 Samuel, and 1 & 2 Kings. Download your reading plan now. Your support makes TMBT possible. Ten Minute Bible Talks is a crowd-funded project. Join the TMBTeam to reach more people with the Bible. Give now. Like this content? Make sure to leave us a rating and share it so that others can find it, too. Use #asktmbt to connect with us, ask questions, and suggest topics. We'd love to hear from you! To learn more, visit our website and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter @TenMinuteBibleTalks. Don't forget to subscribe to the TMBT Newsletter here. Passages: 2 Samuel 18:1-18

Today's Scripture passages are 2 Samuel 14 - 15 | Matthew 20:20-34 | Mark 10:35-45.Read by Ekemini Uwan.Get in The Word with Truth's Table is a production of InterVarsity Press. For 75 years, IVP has published and created thoughtful Christian books for the university, church, and the world. Our Bible reading plan is adapted from Bible Study Together, and the Bible version is the New English Translation, used by permission.SPECIAL OFFER | As a listener of this podcast, use the code IVPOD25 for 25% off any IVP resource mentioned in this episode at ivpress.com.Additional Credits:Song production: Seaux ChillSong lyrics written by: Seaux Chill, Ekemini Uwan, and Christina EdmondsonPodcast art: Kate LillardPhotography: Shelly EveBible consultant: JM SmithSound engineering: Podastery StudiosCreative producers: Ekemini Uwan and Christina EdmondsonAssistant producer: Christine Pelliccio MeloExecutive producer: Helen LeeDisclaimer: The comments, views, and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and/or the guests featured on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of InterVarsity Press or InterVarsity Christian Fellowship.

Psalm 3 is a cry, a plea to God for help. David wrote it as he flees his son Absalom who was overthrowing the throne. David feels surrounded — like there's no way out. The Soccer Psalm 3 is also written from a similar perspective — a player who's been severely criticized. The media pundits […]

My friend confided that he hadn’t been sleeping well. His sleeplessness was related to a difficult family situation that had kept him up at night. It happened that this was the day I was prepared to discuss Psalm 3 in my adult Sunday school class. In Psalm 3, King David also had a family problem, one that would lead most of us to sleeplessness. His son Absalom was undermining David’s rule over Israel as part of his plan to overthrow him and snatch the crown himself. David was in despair. He fled Jerusalem after a messenger said, “the hearts of the people of Israel are with Absalom” (2 Samuel 15:13). In Psalm 3:1, David describes his situation: “Lord, how many are my foes!” But notice how David found peace. He recalled that God was his shield of protection and that He “lifts [his] head” (v. 3). Then came the help we all need when we fret over our circumstances: David was able to “lie down and sleep.” He observed, “I wake again, because the Lord sustains me” (v. 5). For my friend facing a tough time, this was great news. And for all of us who face hard circumstances and sleepless nights, our God protects us and gives us rest. When we place our total trust in Him, He helps us “lie down and sleep” (v. 5).

The gabezo has been found! Editing & Sound Design byKevin Robbins

In this sermon, Pastor Keith examines Joab's scheme, Absalom's return, and David's hesitant kiss, exposing the tragic results of manipulated mercy, sentimentalism, and unresolved sin. Through a fake parable, a forced return, false beauty, and a feeble kiss, we see that every shortcut to peace—without repentance and justice—only results in greater division. Pastor Keith urges us to seek true restoration not in human schemes, but in the righteous and gracious King Jesus, who alone brings peace with God and men through the cross.

Pastor Ben spoke about living under the authority of Jesus and fully trusting Him with our lives. He showed how pride, fear, jealousy, and past failures can hold us back, just like they did with Saul and Absalom. But when we surrender everything to God, like David did, He gives us a new heart, boldness, and the power to live with purpose.

Human beings are evil. We are hardwired to curate our self-image, excuse our failures, and cling to the stories that make us feel good about ourselves. The truth is, we are hypocrites—fluctuating between condemning unspeakable horrors, often hidden from public view, and idolizing the very politicians and institutional cowards who cause or permit them.The same psychological games we play to deceive ourselves work flawlessly when we're told to choose the “lesser of two evils” during election season.Listen to yourselves, habibi. You reject Scripture—yet somehow affirm its judgment against you when you call one of your human choices the “lesser of two evils.”You hypocrite.Most people will never acknowledge their complicity in the killing fields of Gaza. It's far more comfortable to live in self-deception than to face the truth about the monsters we really are.Evil functions under a triple constraint.First: your reflection, shown in a natural mirror, not of your own making. You want to look away, to forget what you see. So, you rush to the second constraint: the mirror of your fairy tales—the one that says you are the “fairest of them all.” Or worse, the artificial mirrors in your data centers, which regurgitate what everyone wants to hear, calibrated to the desires of monsters.Between these two lies the third constraint: your neighbor. The neighbor who also sees your reflection, not in the natural mirror of Scripture, but in how you behave when you follow yourself, even though they are as blind as you.In the end, the natural mirror does not care if you “speak the truth.” It already knows that you, like your virtue-signaling, murderous, failed politicians, are blind, arrogant, and evil.The mirror has only one objective: to force you to see the truth it reflects about you, and not to let you look away. Can you accept this? Can you sit with it? Or will you, once again, project your truth onto someone else caught in the same triple constraint?You hypocrite.You blind fool.On that day, no amount of pleading will bring you comfort.This week, I discuss Luke 8:31.Photo by Kyle Johnson on UnsplashShow Notes“They were imploring him not to command them to go away into the abyss.” Lk 8:31.“For if anyone is a listener of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks at his natural face in a mirror; (τὸ πρόσωπον τῆς γενέσεως — literally, “the face of birth” or “natural face”) for once he has looked at himself and gone away, he has immediately forgotten what kind of person he was.” (James 1:23–24)παρακαλέω (parakaleō) / נ–ח–ם (nūn–ḥet–mēm) / ن–ح–م (nūn–ḥāʾ–mīm)Encourage, exhort, and comfort. Feel regret, be sorry, and console yourself. Provide comfort. Saul disobeyed God's command by sparing King Agag and taking spoils from the battle. God, through Samuel, declares that he regrets [נִחַמְתִּי (niḥamti)] making Saul king:“I regret [נִחַמְתִּי (niḥamti)] that I have made Saul king, because he has turned back from following me and has not carried out my commands.” And Samuel was furious, and he cried out to the Lord all night. (1 Samuel 15:11)Later in 1 Samuel 15:30, Saul, like Legion, makes a self-serving plea, concerned with his reputation rather than divine obedience.David's so-called consolation [נִחַם (niḥam)] in 2 Samuel was not repentance or discernment—it was political sentimentality disguised as pastoral care. It resembled the rhetoric of a liberal American politician who publicly laments starving children in Gaza, yet quietly approves weapons sales, enforces food embargoes, and suppresses dissent.David had a soft spot for Absalom, even though Absalom murdered his half-brother Amnon in a revenge killing for the rape of their sister Tamar. Instead of submitting to God's instruction, David inserted himself as judge and jury, led not by divine command but by personal affection and public image. This sentimental indulgence led to Absalom's exile, his orchestrated return, and eventual rebellion—a direct consequence of David's failure to uphold justice according to the Lord's command, rather than his personal “consolation.”And the heart of King David longed to go out to Absalom; for he was comforted [נִחַם (niḥam)] regarding Amnon, since he was dead. (2 Samuel 13:39)Pharaoh, in the following example, is lexically analogous to Legion in Luke 8:31, who pleads not to be judged, but to seek relief from consequences in lieu of repentance. In Ezekiel, Pharaoh observes other fallen nations, tyrants, and armies defeated, and finds a twisted comfort in their shared destruction:Pharaoh will see them, and he will be comforted [וְנִחַם (weniḥam)] for all his hordes killed by the sword—Pharaoh and all his army,” declares the Lord God. (Ezekiel 32:31)In this final example from Lamentations, a destroyed Jerusalem calls for God's wrath to fall upon her enemies. But unlike Pharaoh, who found twisted comfort in the judgment of others (Ezekiel 32:31), this plea arises under the unbearable weight of divine chastisement. As it is written:“The Lord is righteous; for I have rebelled against his command. Hear now, all you peoples, and see my pain; My virgins and my young men have gone into captivity.” (Lamentations 1:18)The call for vindication is not a boast but a plea, spoken on the lips of the harlot city—Jerusalem—who confesses her guilt and urges the Lord to act. Her cry for the nations to “become like me” is an appeal to divine vengeance, not for destruction's sake, but to expose their harlotry, undo their rebellion, and make possible their submission to God's command, which Jerusalem itself foolishly rejected:People have heard that I groan; there is no one to comfort me [מְנַחֵם (menaḥem)]. All my enemies have heard of my disaster; they are joyful that you have done it. Oh, that you would bring the day which you have proclaimed, so that they will become like me. (Lamentations 1:21)Luke 8:31, ἐπιτάσσω, Legion “pleads” for consolation in Luke. In Qur'an 7:14–15, this motif corresponds to a mashal with a different root, أ–م–ر (ʾalif–mīm–rāʾ), where Iblis “begs” God for respite: ن–ظ–ر (nūn–ẓāʾ–rāʾ).He said, “Grant me [أَنظِرْنِي (anẓirnī)] respite until the Day they are resurrected.”ἐπιτάσσω (epitassō...

As King David continues to rebuild his kingdom after his son's Absalom's rebellion, he disobeys God causing judgment to fall on the kingdom. Listen on Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6wHzaGPmwesCEfhrSDzM88 

On Thursday evening that we're looking at here in Luke chapter 22,Jesus has the Passover meal with His disciples, and there He institutes theLord's Supper. Somewhere between the Passover meal and the institution of the Lord'sSupper, Judas leaves to go gather the soldiers that will arrest Jesus. It is aroundthis same time, Jesus told Peter, "You're going to betray Me threetimes." Now, it is at that point, John 18:1 says, “When Jesus hadspoken these words, He went out with His disciples over the Brook Kidron, wherethere was a garden, which He and His disciples entered.” In Matthew 26:36, Matthewgives us the name of the garden. “Then Jesus came withthem to a place called Gethsemane, and said to the disciples, "Sit herewhile I go and pray over there." That'swhat we're looking at in verse 39 of Luke 22: “Coming out, Jesus went to theMount of Olives, as He was accustomed, and His disciples also followed Him”.No doubt, Judas knew that He was going to this place each evening, and that'swhy he went there with the Roman soldiers to arrest Jesus after he had betrayedHim. Youmight ask why is this garden such a significant place for the story of Christ betrayal,arrest and crucifixion? Why did Jesus go to this garden, and why does thisgarden become a place that we need to know about? I think there are so manywonderful things we can learn from this. We must remember that the history ofmankind began in a garden; that's where God created Adam and placed him in agarden in Genesis 2:7-25. Read through that passage and circle the word"in the garden" or "the garden". It'sin the garden of Eden in Genesis chapter 3 that sin enters the world. There yousee Adam and Eve disobeying and rebelling against known will of God and eatingof the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, and sin enters theworld. But we also know here we have the Son of Man, Jesus Christ, the Son ofGod, who is the second Adam, according to 1 Corinthians 15:45-47. The firstAdam was disobedient and ate of the fruit that was forbidden, and sin comesinto the human race. It was the second man, Jesus Christ, who submitted to thewill of God. He became obedient even unto the death of the cross, and there inthe garden of Gethsemane, He accepts the cup, the cup of our sins, the cup ofsufferings, and He is willing to go to the cross and die for us and give useternal life. The first Adam brought death in a garden, but the second Adam,Jesus Christ, is the one who brings us life as He submitted to the will of theFather. Howinteresting is that, that it all begins and ends in the garden? Maybe John hadin mind, when he said that Jesus crossed the brook Kidron, he was thinkingabout David in 2 Samuel chapter 15, when Absalom rebelled against him, andDavid loses his throne and leaves Jerusalem with a small remnant of followersand goes across the brook Kidron, fleeing from his son Absalom. Here we seeJesus Christ, the King of the Jews, literally the King of heaven, the King ofeternity; He is rejected, and He leaves Jerusalem and goes across the samebrook Kidron, which means “murky, dark. and enters the garden of Gethsemane. Theword Gethsemane means “olive press”, where the olives would be pressed, and outof it would come the oil that would be used for healing and cooking and for somany different things. In the garden of Gethsemane Jesus Christ drank the cupof our sins; He was pressed; His life was pressed out of Him there in prayer asHe prayed, and willingly laid down His life for usWhatan interesting passage. I trust you'll meditate on these words, and you'll evenmore than ever love your Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave His life for you. Godbless!

King David grieves for the his son Absalom, even though he betrayed him. In the aftermath of the rebellion, David must return to his role as the king of Israel.

These petty troubles and vexations! George Everard, "Little Foxes, and How to Catch Them!" 1878 (You will find it helpful to LISTEN to the Audio, as you READ the text below.) We must see our heavenly Father's hand in our lesser trials and cares, as much as in the greater ones. David recognized the hand of God, in Absalom rising against him in rebellion--but he saw it no less in Shimei throwing stones and dust and casting bitter words at him. Just so, let us see God's hand in everything. These petty troubles and vexations are a part of our schooling for Heaven. They are just as much sent from above, as the fierce storm that wrecks our home and leaves us desolate in a cold world. They all come . . . to prove us, to humble us, to draw out the grace which God has given us, to break the tie that binds us too closely to earth, to knit the tie that draws us nearer to Heaven. Let us ever fix this in our minds. Let us say to ourselves: "My Father has sent this trial!  Not a sparrow falls to the ground without Him.  The very hairs of my head are numbered by Him.  So I will trust His heart, where I cannot trace His hand.  He is too wise to be mistaken--and too good to be unkind!"

Psalms - Prayer for help in trouble. A prayer for help, and praise for its answer. Prayer for the destruction of the treacherous.2 Samuel - Ziba, a false servant. David is cursed. Absalom enters Jerusalem.

King David continues to deal with the fallout from his son Absalom's rebellion, and he turns his heart toward God.

In this sermon, Pastor Keith expounds the tragic aftermath of Amnon's sin and David's silence, resulting in Absalom's vengeful murder of his brother. He exposes the fallacy of revenge without righteousness. We are exhorted to entrust judgment to the Lord rather than taking matters into our own hands, and to wait for a King who will render righteous vengeance, which is the hope we have with the return of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Judge of all the earth.

Nathan Pearl continues through the story of King David, his rule, and the insurrection led by his son Absalom.

In a foreshadow of coming division, a man named Sheba divides the rest of Israel from Judah, and David sends Amasa to gather troops. Remember, David has just been reinstated as king after his son Absalom turned against him to take the throne for himself. During that period, Absalom appointed Amasa as the new leader of his army, a position once held by Joab. Joab is the man who killed David's son Absalom, and David surely knew this. When reinstated as king, David appointed Amasa, not Joab, as the leader of the army. When Joab and Amasa meet on the road, Joab drops his sword to the ground, and picks it up non-chalantly, asking Amasa if he is well, all of which is a very clever way to deceive the new leader and take over.2 Samuel 20 – 1:01 . 2 Samuel 21 – 6:26 . 2 Samuel 22 – 12:31 . Psalm 102 – 19:36 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In this Greg and Nathan invite teacher Dave Shive to explore one of the Bible's most complex and compelling figures: King David. From shepherd boy to king, David's life is a tapestry of triumph, tragedy, faith, and failure. The conversation traces David's early anointing by the prophet Samuel and examines the tumultuous, decades-long wait before David actually ascended the throne. What does such a prolonged period of waiting do to a man's soul? Dave offers fascinating insight into David's relationship with Samuel, his uneasy entanglement with Saul, and his eventual rise to leadership over both Judah and Israel. Listeners will gain fresh perspective on pivotal moments in David's story—from his apparent shift toward darker choices, to his reactions in the wake of Saul's death, to the far-reaching consequences of the Bathsheba incident. Dave also explores David's heartbreaking saga with Absalom and reflects on the final days of David's life, filled with both regret and resolve. Whether you've read David's story many times or are encountering it anew, this episode will challenge your assumptions and deepen your appreciation for the grace of God in the life of a deeply human king.

David's son Absalom is a handsome young man who has won the hearts of Israel by deception, telling them that King David had no time for them but he would grant justice if only he were in charge. Absalom devises a coup to overthrow David, but his father catches wind of his plot and flees before he arrives. Today, David's men prepare for battle and meet the forces of Absalom's Israelite troops. He “goes out on a limb” as it were and fights against his father but ends up “hanging out with the wrong crowd.” That's two dad jokes for the price of one; if you don't get it, you will soon. Anyways, the forest itself claims more lives than the sword, and Absalom meets his end at the hands of Joab.2 Samuel 18 – 1:02 . 2 Samuel 19 – 9:36 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

After killing his brother at a family dinner, Absalom fled to another country, and was only brought back after Joab convinced David to do so by way of a theatric analogy. Today, Absalom begins a plan to win the hearts of the people and turn Israel against his father, the king. Learning of this impending insurrection, David flees Jerusalem with all of his people, save a handle of men who serve as spies. Nathan prophesied that the Lord would bring disaster on David from his own family, and that another man would sleep with his wives before Israel in broad daylight. David's own son, Absalom, is that man. 2 Samuel 15 - 1:02 . 2 Samuel 16 - 9:41 . 2 Samuel 17 - 14:47 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

After defeating the possessed doll and toy horse, the brave Kobolds head upstairs. Editing & Sound Design byKevin Robbins

Can David undo the sin that has ensnared his son, Absalom?

Can David undo the sin that has ensnared his son, Absalom?

Today's reading includes an account of sexual violence, so listener discretion is advised. The sexual sin that began in David's heart and was executed in front of his household is now spreading throughout his family, as his sons begin to use their own power to satisfy their own lust and perversity. David's son Amnon lusts after Tamar, his own half-sister, and plots to rape her at the encouragement of his friend Jonadab. When David discovers that Tamar has been raped by Amnon, he is furious, but sadly, he does nothing to intervene. Tamar's brother Absalom is furious, setting in motion a series of events that causes havoc, not only in David's household, but in his kingdom.2 Samuel 13 - 1:05 . 2 Samuel 14 - 10:01 . Psalm 101 - 17:47 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

On our last episode we followed the trajectory of David's son Absalom, a handsome young man who had won the hearts of Israel by deception, telling those who came to King David that the king had no time for them. Absalom devises a coup to overthrow David, but his father catches wind of his plot and flees before he arrives. Today, David's men prepare for battle and meet the forces of Absalom's Israelite troops. The forest itself claims more lives than the sword, and Absalom meets his end at the hands of Joab. Later, David is restored as king, but not without personal turmoil.2 Samuel 18 - 1:16 . 2 Samuel 19 - 9:41 . 2 Samuel 20 - 19:59 . Psalm 83 - 25:38 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

After killing his brother at a family dinner, Absalom fled to another country, and was only brought back after Joab convinced David to do so by way of a theatric analogy. Today, Absalom begins a plan to win the hearts of the people and turn Israel against his father, the king. Learning of this impending insurrection, David flees Jerusalem with all of his people, save a handle of men who serve as spies. Nathan prophesied that the Lord would bring disaster on David from his own family, and that another man would sleep with his wives before Israel in broad daylight. David's own son, Absalom, is that man. 2 Samuel 15 - 1:12 . 2 Samuel 16 - 9:44 . 2 Samuel 17 - 15:01 . Psalm 81 - 21:26 . Psalm 82 - 23:30 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In this Bible Story, Sheba begins a revolt against David, and many people gather to defy him in the streets of Israel. David, knowing that Sheba's rebellion could topple Israel, sends his strongest men in pursuit of him. This story is inspired by 2 Samuel 19:9-20:13. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is 2 Samuel 19:15 from the King James Version.Episode 108: Absalom was dead, but his rebellion was not. So David invited those who were loyal to Absalom to come into his courts, receive forgiveness, and have positions of influence fit for their skills. Just as God was giving him the ability to govern the people into unity, a man named Sheba began a rebellion of his own. David, seeing that this rebellion could be worse than the one they just went through, sent his commanders to deal with it swiftly.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world's greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this Bible Story, we witness the short-lived coupe of Absalom. Having just taken over the throne of David, Absalom’s army is defeated in battle by David’s mighty men and Absalom is killed. This story is inspired by 2 Samuel 17:24-19:8. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is 2 Samuel 18:9 from the King James Version.Episode 107: David and his commanders went to gather the army, but Abishai told David that it would be better for the army if he stayed behind and recruited more soldiers. David sent the army off and asked them to deal gently with Absalom for His sake. But during the battle, Absalom got caught in some branches and was killed by David’s men. When David heard about his death, he mourned for his son. But his mourning would lead to shame for the entire army and a confrontation from Joab.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world’s greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this Bible Story, Absalom successfully takes the throne of David. David, not wanting to cause a civil war in the streets of Jerusalem, flees into the wilderness until he can plan his next step. This story is inspired by 2 Samuel 15-17:23. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is 2 Samuel 15:14 from the King James Version.Episode 106: Absalom began to plot against his father David by manipulating the people. Anytime someone would come to visit the king, he would meet them first and speak sweet-sounding lies to them. He built himself up in the eyes of the people while tearing his father down. Four years later his plans would succeed. He forced his father to flee by threatening war within the city. David was once again forced into the wilderness, but this time half the city went with him.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world's greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this Bible Story, Joab convinces David to allow his son Absalom to return from exile. Absalom returns, not as a reformed or changed man, but more bitter than ever. This story is inspired by 2 Samuel 14. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is 2 Samuel 14:24 from the King James Version.Episode 105: Joab, seeing David wishing for Absalom's return but unwilling to get him himself, devised a scheme with a woman from Tekoa. The woman came to David as her king and told a sad tale of her two sons. David, realizing Joab's hand in this, called him in and ordered him to bring back Absalom. But because of his ban from seeing his father David, he too began to nurse a hatred for him. Beginning to devising how he would take the throne from himself.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world's greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this Bible Story, we peer into the difficult relationships within David's family. One of David's sons, Amnon, rapes his half sister Tamar. And as an act of revenge, Absalom murders him. This story is inspired by 2 Samuel 13. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is 2 Samuel 13:30 from the King James Version.Episode 104: David was blessed with many children, yet because of his many marriages, this made for dysfunction rather than joy; such as the lust that Amnon had for his half-sister Tamar. He schemed with his friend Jonadab to feign sickness and raped her as she was caring for him. Running in shame to her brother Absalom she told him all that had happened. He took her in and cared for her but he also took the spirit of revenge in and nursed it in his heart. Two years later he killed Amnon and fled to Geshur.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world's greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's readings, Fr. Mike points out how the loss of David's son overshadows everything else for a time. The readings are 2 Samuel 19, 1 Chronicles 24, and Psalm 38. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Today, we hear about the downfall of Absalom, and how David reacts to the news of his death. In Chronicles, we read about David changing some of the rules of worship, as he prepares for Temple worship. The readings are 2 Samuel 18, 1 Chronicles 23, and Psalm 37. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Fr. Mike explains the events of today's readings, breaking down Hushai's advice to Absalom, David's warning and charge of Solomon, and the theme of centralized worship. We all desire to be temples of the Holy Spirit, and we bring this prayer to God through today's episode. Today's readings are 2 Samuel 17, 1 Chronicles 22, and Psalm 36. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Fr. Mike talks about the horrible things that can happen when we turn away from God and stop asking him "what's the next step?" In today's readings we see David humbled and humiliated, Absalom revealing how devastating sin is, and the evil that comes from war. Today's readings are 2 Samuel 16, 1 Chronicles 21, and Psalm 15. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Fr. Mike reflects on the story of David and Absalom, and points out the lack of forgiveness and repentance on both men's part. God forgives us no matter what, but without us mirroring that forgiveness, rebellion can easily rise up. Today's readings are 2 Samuel 14, 1 Chronicles 18, and Psalm 14. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.