Podcasts about Absalom

God Empowers the Weak (7)  (audio) David Eells, 9/30/26 We all want to manifest the fruit of the Spirit, but first there must be the crucifixion of the lusts. Jesus taught us and He's our example. Many people think He was an example so that we wouldn't have to die. No, Jesus didn't die so that we wouldn't have to die. Jesus died so that we could die. I'm talking about dying spiritually; dying to self. He died to make it possible for us to die to self.  Those who refuse to take up their cross and follow Him, and refuse to obey His commands, are refusing to be disciples. Even if they call themselves Christians. I want to show you that Jesus turned the other cheek, but He did it as an example to us. When Jesus was before Pilate and the Sanhedrin (Matthew 27:12-14), He resisted not the evil. He did turn the other cheek. He had the power to say “No.” He had more power than the disciples understood He had because they thought they were going to save Him with the sword. (Mat.26:52) Then saith Jesus unto him, Put up again thy sword into its place: for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword. He said, “Don't you know I could call more than 12 legions of angels?” (Matthew 26:53) Look, Jesus had power they didn't know of to keep from going to the cross. He didn't have to resort to man's arm of the flesh. One angel in the Old Testament killed 185,000 men (2 Kings 19:35) and Jesus is talking about calling 72,000 angels here. That's power! Christians need to realize that their power is not in the arm of the flesh; it's in the Kingdom of Heaven. That power should be used to fulfill God's Will. In the very next verse after Jesus said, “Don't you know I could call more than 12 legions of angels?” He said, “how then should the scriptures be fulfilled, that thus it must be?” (Mat.26:54) We want the Scriptures to be fulfilled in us, which is the manifestation of Christ; however, they won't be fulfilled if you refuse to go to your cross. Just as Jesus had a free will and He could have called the 12 legions of angels, we have a free will, and we could, in many cases, walk away from our cross. But that doesn't mean we won't be faced with it again. We will be faced with it again and again because God is merciful. And we'll be faced with it until we get it right or just run out of time because we are running out of time. We've been put here to bear fruit, and we've been given a certain amount of time to do that. There's a door closing on the other end of this life. I've shared before the vision my wife had about being on a treadmill. The door ahead was closing. We had to run faster and faster to get through the door before it closed. The treadmill was imperceptibly picking up speed going in the opposite direction, and we had to run faster and faster. That's the way the world is; it's picking up speed in the opposite direction, and the door is closing. We're running a race but it's not a race against one another; this is a race against time. There's a door closing. You have to bear fruit or else you'll be called what Scripture and Jesus called an “unprofitable servant,” cast forth into outer darkness (Matthew 25:30). There's no such thing as bearing fruit without the cross. I'm going to point out just a few of Jesus' commands and show you that when you obey them, they put you in a position of weakness. You cannot defend yourself. You cannot hit back. You won't be able to do the things that your flesh wants because, if you do, your flesh will live and it will get stronger. (Rom.8:13) For if ye live after the flesh (in other words, if you walk in obedience to the flesh), ye must die; but if by the Spirit ye put to death the deeds of the body, ye shall live. We want the new man to live and there's only one way that can happen – the old man has to die. They live in the same house. The spiritual man was supposed to go into the Promised Land and kill the old man and live in his house, and we are, in one parallel, that promised land. That spiritual man is Christ in us and He's the spiritual man in every one of us, Who seeks to take over our vessel. (1Pe.2:18) Servants, [be] in subjection to your masters with all fear; not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward. (19) For this is acceptable (the literal translation is actually “grace”), For this is grace, if for conscience toward God a man endureth griefs, suffering wrongfully. Grace? That's right. God sends us through grace down here on this earth. Sometimes we don't look on it as grace, but it's fleshly suffering. He calls it grace. That's the original word there. We have to go through suffering. (Act.14:22) … Through many tribulations we must enter into the kingdom of God. We must go through suffering because the flesh doesn't die without suffering. If you're not suffering, then you're not ceasing from sin. Peter said, He that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin (1Pe.4:1). That's because when you're suffering, when the flesh is suffering – and I'm talking about that entity of the old man in you, the mind of the flesh in you – when that old man is suffering, it means that he's not getting his way and he's dying. This is not about the physical flesh suffering, you understand. I'm talking about that entity that lives in you that wants to gratify “self.” If the old man is not suffering, you're not bearing the cross; you're not obeying the commands of Jesus to lose your life. So Peter called it “grace” here. (1Pe.2:20) For what glory is it, if, when ye sin, and are buffeted [for it,] ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer [for it,] ye shall take it patiently, this is grace with God. The last thing we want is to do right and to have wrong done to us in return. We want justice and our rights. The flesh demands its rights, but the flesh is a dead man. We reckon the old man to be dead unto sin (Romans 6:11) and dead men don't demand rights. You can slap the dead man on one cheek and they'll turn the other one, too. That's the way Jesus commanded us. If you want that old man to die, then don't feed him. Just don't obey him and he'll die. This is grace with God. (1Pe.2:21) For hereunto were ye called…. We were called to suffer in what the world would call “wrongfully.” In other words, we're called to suffer when we do right. (1Pe.2:21) For hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, that ye should follow his steps: (22) who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: (23) who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, threatened not; but committed [himself] to him that judgeth righteously. In other words, Jesus left judgment, wrath and payback in the hands of God. Peter said Jesus left this example to us so that we should follow in His steps. Every day we're going to have an opportunity to do this. There's just no way you could live this life without having an opportunity to deny our self life. Don't waste your time. Redeem the time (Ephesians 5:16), the Scripture says. This is what we're here for. Suffering is one of God's greatest methods to put to death your flesh so that Christ can live in you.  (1Pe.3:13) And who is he that will harm you, if ye be zealous of that which is good? (14) But even if ye should suffer for righteousness' sake, blessed [are ye:] and fear not their fear, neither be troubled; (15) but sanctify in your hearts Christ as Lord: [being] ready always to give answer to every man that asketh you a reason concerning the hope that is in you, yet with meekness and fear: (16) having a good conscience; that, wherein ye are spoken against, they may be put to shame who revile your good manner of life in Christ. (17) For it is better, if the will of God should so will, that ye suffer for well-doing than for evil-doing. (18) Because Christ also suffered for sins once, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God; being put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit. We can see a spiritual type there in the life of Christ. When He resisted not the evil, He was put to death in the flesh, but He was made alive in the spirit. This is a spiritual type for us because, if we want to be made alive in the spirit, we must accept our death in the fleshly self-life daily.  (1Pe.4:14) If ye are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed [are ye;] because the [Spirit] of glory and the Spirit of God resteth upon you. (15) For let none of you suffer as a murderer, or a thief, or an evil-doer, or as a meddler in other men's matters: but if [a man suffer] as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God in this name. (17) For the time [is come] for judgment to begin at the house of God: and if [it begin] first at us, what [shall be] the end of them that obey not the gospel of God? (18) And if the righteous is scarcely saved, where shall the ungodly and sinner appear? (19) Wherefore let them also that suffer according to the will of God (That doesn't fit the prosperity doctrine very well, does it?) commit their souls in well-doing unto a faithful Creator. Commit your soul unto a faithful Creator. Jesus obeyed His own command in Matthew 5:39 and He was crucified for it. I can imagine several places where He could have interjected just a little bit of truth and totally turned the situation around, such as when He talked about, “destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up” (Joh.2:19). Of course, he spake of the temple of his body (21), but that's not what was brought out at the trial by the Sanhedrin and I never saw Him even objecting to it, though He knew what He meant. He didn't bother to stick up for Himself. There's one person from the Old Testament who really impressed me with his understanding of not resisting him that is evil, and that's David. He obeyed this. I've seen probably a half-dozen to a dozen good examples of where David obeyed this doctrine. He seemed to be way ahead of his time in understanding what it was that pleased God. He seemed to be almost walking in New Testament revelation in some areas of this resisting not evil and it definitely bore fruit in his soul. (Psa.38:12) They also that seek after my life lay snares [for me,] And they that seek my hurt speak mischievous things, and meditate deceits all the day long. (13) But I, as a deaf man, hear not; And I am as a dumb man that openeth not his mouth. (14) Yea, I am as a man that heareth not, And in whose mouth are no reproofs. (15) For in thee, O Lord, do I hope: Thou wilt answer, O Lord my God. David put his trust in God to bring about justice, just as the Lord did (1 Peter 2:23), and not with his own tongue, nor in his own strength. In fact, as we read on here, you'll see that David knew and understood God's purpose. You know, it's a fiery trial when you resist not the evil, no matter what form it is. There's a righteous indignation that rises up on the inside of you wanting justice, but listen, we can't afford justice. Nobody reading this can afford justice. We want mercy. With the merciful thou wilt show thyself merciful (Psa.18:25). If you get justice, you're in trouble. Did you know that? God gives justice to some and He gives mercy to others (Romans 9:21-23). Christians get mercy. The world doesn't always get mercy. But I'll tell you what, the only thing we better show to the world is mercy because God's going to be merciful and forgiving to those who are merciful and forgiving. And to those who are not merciful, He's going to give justice (Matthew 18:35). None of us here can afford the justice of God. Not everybody even gets a revelation of God in this world, but they get justice because every man is going to reap what he sows (Galatians 6:7). People ask, “What do you do with the wicked who never hear the name of Christ?” No problem. They're going to get justice. Everybody in this world is going to at least get justice, but Christians, at least true Christians, are going to get mercy and grace from Him.  God's not doing wrong by doing that because He's at the very least giving justice to people. But we had better pray that we don't get justice because that means we'll pay for what we've done and what we are doing that is wrong. David understood this, and Jesus understood this. So David says, “for I said, Lest they rejoice over me: When my foot slippeth, they magnify themselves against me.” (Psa.38:16) (17) For I am ready to fall, And my sorrow is continually before me. (18) For I will declare mine iniquity; I will be sorry for my sin. (19) But mine enemies are lively, [and] are strong; And they that hate me wrongfully are multiplied. (20) They also that render evil for good Are adversaries unto me, because I follow the thing that is good. (21) Forsake me not, O Lord: O my God, be not far from me. (22) Make haste to help me, O Lord, my salvation. (39:1) I said, I will take heed to my ways, That I sin not with my tongue: I will keep my mouth with a bridle, While the wicked is before me. (2) I was dumb with silence, I held my peace, even from good; And my sorrow was stirred. (3) My heart was hot within me; While I was musing the fire burned; [Then] spake I with my tongue: (4) Lord, make me to know mine end, And the measure of my days, what it is; Let me to know how frail I am. You know, when David resisted not the evil, when he kept his mouth shut when he was really being pressured to speak up, he said the fire burned in him. Have you ever felt that fire? I have. It's just like a real fire burning in you. It's a fiery trial that's come to prove you and to burn up the wood, hay and stubble of the self-life. You know, we've been told by some church ministers that the fiery trial is in the next life, but that's as big a lie as has ever been told. (1Co.3:12) But if any man buildeth on the foundation gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay, stubble; (13) each man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it is revealed in fire; and the fire itself shall prove each man's work of what sort it is. It's here that you go through the fiery trial to burn up the wood, hay and stubble, not in the next life. The Bible says, “the day shall declare it.” There are no days in eternity. This is where the fiery trial comes. But you can avoid the fiery trial very easily. All you have to do is not obey the commands of Jesus. If you don't obey Him, it's easy to avoid those kinds of trials, and quite often we'll go around them, but what we're doing is putting off the day of crucifixion and the day of bearing fruit. God wants to motivate us with many, many Scriptures that today is the day of salvation. Today is God's day of deliverance (2 Corinthians 6:2). I found many places where David understood this. One of them is when Nabal's herds had been protected by David and his men out in the wilderness (1 Samuel 25:16). By the way, Nabal means “fool.” And David's men were sent to Nabal to get some supplies for his men, who were living in the wilderness, and Nabal answered them very roughly and sent them back without any help (1 Samuel 25:10,11,14). So David had decided, “I'll just go over there and take his head off” (1 Samuel 25:22). Meanwhile, Nabal's wife, who was a very understanding and wise woman, decided she was going to go meet David and ask his forgiveness, and she did (1 Samuel 25:24). And one thing she said is, “Thank God that the Lord has withheld you from avenging yourself at your own hand” (1 Samuel 25:26,31). She said that twice. Then David thanked her for her part in bringing that to pass (1 Samuel 25:32,33). You know, there's something wrong about us avenging ourselves with our own hand. (Rom.12:19) Avenge not yourselves, beloved, but give place unto the wrath [of God:] for it is written, Vengeance belongeth unto me; I will recompense, saith the Lord. He said, if you do this, “thou shalt heap coals of fire upon his head” (20). In other words, it's God's job to repay. If we repay, then God has to whip us because we've been commanded over and over not to repay. If we do it, He's going to whip us, but He doesn't have to whip them.  I'll give you an example. If you have two kids and you tell them, “Now, look, don't you hit back. If so-and-so does something to you, you come and tell me; I'll take care of it. If one of them hits back, then the other one has al­ready gotten his punishment. In that case, why should I hit him again? I'm going to have to hit you since you're the one who needs the whipping because you disobeyed me.” Here's the point. This is the way God does things. If He tells us. “Don't do it,” there's a purpose in it. (Eph.6:12) For our wrestling is not against flesh and blood, but against the principalities, against the powers, against the world-rulers of this darkness, against the spiritual [hosts] of wickedness in the heavenly [places]. What we war against must be done in the spirit; it must be done with authority of Christ and through the power of faith. It can't be done in the flesh.  Let me show you a really good example of this from David. (2Sa.16:5) And when king David came to Bahurim, behold, there came out thence a man of the family of the house of Saul, whose name was Shimei, the son of Gera; he came out, and cursed still as he came. (6) And he cast stones at David, and at all the servants of king David: and all the people and all the mighty men were on his right hand and on his left. (7) And thus said Shimei when he cursed, Begone, begone, thou man of blood, and base fellow: (8) the Lord hath returned upon thee all the blood of the house of Saul, in whose stead thou hast reigned … Well, I don't know if Shimei knew it or not, but David had opportunity about three times to kill Saul. It was in his hand to do it, and he wouldn't do it. He would resist the evil. He wouldn't repay. He left that to the Lord, and the Lord took care of that. The Lord used the Philistines to take Saul and his whole family out (1 Samuel 31:6), but He didn't have to blame David for it. David even had to dodge some of Saul's spears and his evil spirits (1 Samuel 18:11, 19:10). Shimei went on with his slander… And the Lord hath delivered the kingdom unto the hand of Absalom thy son; and, behold, thou art [taken] in thine own mischief, because thou art a man of blood. (2Sa.16:9) Then said Abishai the son of Zeruah unto the king, Why should this dead dog curse the lord my king? let me go over, I pray thee, and take off his head. (10) And the king said, What have I to do with you, ye sons of Zeruiah? Because he curseth, and because the Lord hath said unto him, Curse David … Do you see that? “The Lord hath said unto him, ‘Curse David.'” David wasn't wrong here. The Lord works all things after the counsel of His Own Will (Ephesians 1:11). He sends wicked people to us to crucify our flesh. It's His purpose to do that, just as He sent and used the hand of wicked men to crucify the Lord. (Act.2:23) Him, being delivered up by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye by the hand of lawless men did crucify and slay. God used these vessels of dishonor. He used the people of Israel and He used the wicked Roman Empire to crucify the Lord, as the Scripture says. It's the same with us. He put us here in the midst of a bunch of wolves. Jesus said, “I send you forth as lambs in the midst of wolves” (Luk.10:3). We have been put here for crucifixion, and the world is designed to crucify us. If you don't understand that, you don't understand the sovereignty of God. God designed this world to crucify us. Jesus was the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world (Revelation 13:8). Stop and think. “The Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.” Before Adam fell, God designed a Savior. Do you think we're in Plan B? Nope. We're in Plan A. There never has been a Plan B because God is Sovereign. He designed this world to manifest sons, and to manifest sons, you have to have a fallen nature to begin with. There have to be people who don't deserve God's goodness. That's where you have to start out because God wasn't creating angels. If He was creating angels, He wouldn't have had to make man at all. God didn't want angels. He wanted somebody who was fallen and so they could gratefully realize they picked up by the grace of God. You remember what Jesus said to one of the Pharisees? (Luk.7:40) And Jesus, answering, said unto him, Simon, I have somewhat to say unto thee. And he saith, Teacher, say on. (41) A certain lender had two debtors: the one owed five hundred shillings, and the other fifty. (42) When they had not [wherewith] to pay, he forgave them both. Which of them therefore will love him most? (43) Simon answered and said, He, I suppose, to whom he forgave the most. And he said unto him, Thou hast rightly judged. (47) Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, [the same] loveth little. In other words, “Who is forgiven much, loveth much.” See, we're going to know how to love God because we don't deserve anything. We have fallen and have been picked up by grace, not by our works, but by grace or unmerited favor. We don't deserve anything. We deserve justice, but pray you don't get that because God's grace is far above justice. His mercy is far above justice. That's why we have to give grace to other people. Don't give them what they deserve; you may get what you deserve. (Mat.7:2) For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured unto you. If you give somebody justice, you'll receive it back. Give them mercy. Give them grace. God will judge them. God may even judge them out of your mouth, but understand that it won't be with your flesh. The prophets spoke judgments. In the Book of Revelation, prophets speak judgment in (Revelation 11:6). I'm convinced that everything that happens in the Book of Revelation comes out of the mouth of God's children. Many of the curses today that are coming upon this world are coming out of the mouth of God's children. In fact, I'm convinced that all of them do. God is bringing judgment, and He's doing it through His people but it won't be personal retaliation or unforgiveness. They're speaking judgment, but they're not doing it with the mouth of the flesh. You know, we can't rise up against this government that God ordained according to Romans 13. If you do, God promises, “all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword” (Mat.26:52). But ultimately God's Kingdom is coming. The saints are going to possess the Kingdom, and they're going to take it from the Beast. They will do this by using the Sword of the Spirit and it will be happening in the spirit realm. They won't be doing it in the flesh. The flesh must be crucified. Works of the flesh must cease. You must desist. You must resist not him who is evil. In the spirit realm, we can do many mighty things. God has planned it that way so that your spirit man will be strong, but your flesh will be weak. That's the way God's salvation, God's deliverance, and every need is going to come. David understood that the Lord had commanded this, and we need to understand this, too. All we have to do is read Job to see that circumstances are the same today as they were back then. (Job2:10) … What? shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil?…. And you know what? Job repented after God answered him in chapters 38-40. He repented of his self-righteousness. He repented (Job 42:1-6) and God gave him back what he'd lost (Job 42:10). But God used crucifixion in Job's life. Job wasn't physically doing wrong things; he wasn't in outward immoral disobedience. His problem was self-righteousness. God brought all this against him to bring him to repentance. David was also put in a position of crucifixion by God. God sent this enemy against him and David understood that. I think very few people in the Old Testament had wisdom like David concerning this. And he said, (2Sa.16:10) And the king said, What have I to do with you, ye sons of Zeruiah? Because he curseth, and because the Lord hath said unto him, Curse David; who then shall say, Wherefore hast thou done so? (11) And David said to Abishai, and to all his servants, Behold, my son, who came forth from my bowels, seeketh my life: how much more [may] this Benjamite now [do it]? let him alone, and let him curse; for the Lord hath bidden him. “The Lord hath bidden him.” Think about that the next time people come against you and want to put you on the cross, and you keep wanting to climb down. We do want to climb down off that cross, but you can't drive the nails. God has designed the wicked to put the cross in the ground and drive the nails. That's their calling in this world.  God has vessels of honor and vessels of dishonor. He has vessels of grace and vessels of wrath. They're all doing His Will, one way or the other. All things serve the Lord, and He works all things after the counsel of His Own Will (Ephesians 1:11). If you understand this, you can walk in grace and peace in this world, no matter what comes against you, because God put you there for a purpose. He put you there to be crucified and so that you would learn to use the weapons of your warfare (2 Corinthians 10:4). You know, sometimes the Lord sends the devil against you just so you can defeat him. He'll send the enemy against you, but He doesn't want you to go against him by wrestling with flesh and blood (Ephesians 6:12). Remember that the Bible says, “resist not him that is evil” (Mat.5:39). On the other hand, it says, “resist the devil” (Jas.4:7). “Resist not him that is evil” is talking about man. We don't wrestle with flesh and blood. When they wrestled with flesh and blood in the Old Testament, that was a type and shadow of them wrestling with principalities and powers. Go back over there and read the names of those kings and the names of those tribes that were conquered, and study in the Hebrew what those names mean. You're going to find out they're all the lusts of the flesh and demon spirits. That's who the Israelites were spiritually wrestling with and everything that happened to them was a type and a shadow for us. (1Co.10:11) Now these things happened unto them by way of example; and they were written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the ages are come. So go back to the Old Testament and look at it carefully. You'll see what they wrestled with.  Today we think we're supposed to carry on an Old Testament-type warfare in the way we war with people, but you can't grow if you do that. God will chasten you if you do that because you're rebelling against His Word. And David said of his accuser, “the Lord hath bidden him” (2Sa.16:11). (12) It may be that the Lord will look on the wrong done to me, and that the Lord will requite me good for [his] cursing of me this day. David is saying that the Lord will pay him back good for his resisting not evil. If the Lord's going to bless you for it, go ahead and let them curse. Didn't Jesus say you'd be blessed when men would curse you? Absolutely (Matthew 5:11). Didn't He say the spirit of grace and the Spirit of God would rest upon you? Have you ever experienced that? I have. When I first learned of this doctrine, the Lord put me in situations where I did, by His grace, turn the other cheek, and I felt the power of God on me for going through that. It's just a great anointing that comes upon you when you obey God in the place where you want to defend yourself, and you refuse to do it. Instead, you leave it in the hands of God, and you won't defend yourself.  If you do defend ‘self', then the old man will live; he'll climb down off that cross. Even though he's crucified, he's not totally dead yet, so he can still climb down. It's true that we have to reckon him dead (Romans 6:11), but until he is dead, don't let him live; don't feed him. Do you know what fasting is a type of? Well, when you fast, you're not feeding the flesh. What happens when you don't feed it? It gets weak. What does that do? It makes the spiritual man strong. There's a reason for fasting and there's a spiritual type. The whole chapter of Isaiah 58 is talking about spiritual fasting, about denying yourself, so we see that they had a revelation of that in the Old Testament, too. (2Sa.16:13) So David and his men went by the way; and Shimei went along on the hill-side over against him, and cursed as he went, and threw stones at him, and cast dust. (14) And the king, and all the people that were with him, came weary; and he refreshed himself there. Well, that wasn't the end of the story. David never did do anything to Shimei, but his son Solomon had him killed because he rebelled against his commands and left the city. It's hard to comprehend why Shimei was so against David. My guess is he was a low-life who just didn't want to understand the situation here. Anybody who was on Absalom's side and saw righteousness in Absalom and not in David, and saw righteousness in Saul and not in David, was in trouble. He was a sick son of the devil. Leaving our recompense in God's hands will do a work in you that nothing else will do because our old man would like to get the last word. And the last place you'll usually overcome in doing this is in your family. You can do it pretty well with the world and with the Christians around you, but one of the last places you're going to do it is with your family. The Scriptures teach this really well. The Lord says, “bless them that persecute you; bless, and curse not” (Rom.12:14).(17) Render to no man evil for evil. Take thought for things honorable in the sight of all men. (18) If it be possible, as much as in you lieth, be at peace with all men. We're to be at peace with all men. I once had a rather strange thing happen to me when I was in that state between dreaming and waking up. I was faced with an enemy that had come against this country. I saw an invasion force, and I was in the midst of it, and I was saying things to them in this dream like, “You're not my enemy.” The world may have enemies, but the world is not our enemy. Did you know the world is not our enemy? He said, “I will be his father, and he shall be my son: if he commit iniquity, I will chasten him with the rod of men, and with the stripes of the children of men” (2Sa.7:14). See, the rod is not your enemy; the rod is God's method of creation. When what we call our “enemy” is finished doing their work, God's going to destroy them. They have a work to do that we have to cooperate with God in. They are the rod of God who comes against us, but they're not really our enemy. We are to resist not that evil because that evil is what crucifies this flesh, which is our true enemy; it's the enemy of our eternal life. So they're doing a work in us that nothing else could do, and we need them. And God says, “as much as in you lieth, be at peace with all men” (Rom.12:18). (19) Avenge not yourselves, beloved, but give place unto the wrath [of God]. “Give place unto the wrath.” That “of God” wasn't in the original. Just cross that out because it's not in there. It says, “give place unto the wrath: for it is written, Vengeance belongeth unto me; I will recompense, saith the Lord” (19). (20) But if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him to drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire upon his head. (21) Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good. Our method to bring the Gospel to people around us is to overcome evil with good. And Paul said, always leave the vengeance up to the Lord. Now I've heard for years that this ‘heaping coals of fire upon their head' was coals of conviction. Maybe so. But if you don't take vengeance, the Lord will, because He said to Israel, I will bless them that bless thee, and him that curseth thee will I curse (Gen.12:3). The Bible says we're the Israel of God. That verse is about you. It's not about a bunch of pagan Israelites who don't know God. No, it doesn't have anything to do with them. It has to do with the Israel of God. For as many as are of the faith of Abraham, these are the sons of Abraham (Romans 4:16). (Rom.2:28) For he is not a Jew who is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision which is outward in the flesh: (29) but he is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart…. God's going to bless those who bless you, but He's going to curse those who curse you.  (Psa.140:9) As for the head of those that compass me about, Let the mischief of their own lips cover them. (10) Let burning coals fall upon them: Let them be cast into the fire, Into deep pits, whence they shall not rise. So, this ‘burning coals upon the head;' could mean a lot more than just the convicting power. There are some people who will be totally convicted when you resist not their evil, and God can overcome evil in people who can be convicted because the power of God is drawing them. But there are some people who have no desire toward God. They're not being drawn of God, as a matter of fact. The Scripture doesn't say God draws everybody. (Joh.6:44) No man can come to me, except the Father that sent me draw him…. It's just not in there. And this won't do anything for them, but the Bible does say God's judgment will fall upon them. If you resist not the evil, God's judgment will fall upon them, so those burning coals can mean the judgment of God. (Rom.13:1) Let every soul be in subjection to the higher powers: for there is no power but of God…. Did you know that there is no power but of God? If somebody has power over you, guess Who gave them that power? Jesus told Pilate, “thou wouldest have no power against me, except it were given thee from above” (Joh.19:11). It's the same situation with us. God puts us in positions where physically we don't have the power; the enemy, the wicked, have the power. How many times have you ever seen a Christian government over a country? Daniel said that God gives the kingdom to whom He will and He sets up over it the basest of men (Daniel 4:17). Did you ever wonder why God does that? Did you ever wonder why, in the days of Jesus, there were the Neros and the Caesars, and since then the Hitlers and the Mussolinis? God does that because we need crucifixion. God is in the process of creating sons, and there has to be a crucifixion for sons. The people in power most often are the wicked. The Bible says in Romans 13 that when they're put in power, God puts them there. So it says, “let every soul be in subjection to the higher powers: for there is no power but of God; and the [powers] that be are ordained of God” (Rom.13:1). And that was written in the days of the Herods and the Caesars and the Neros! God put them in there and they crucified the Christians. They brought the Christians through trouble and all that was God's purpose. (Act.14:22) … Through many tribulations we must enter into the kingdom of God.

Back on Absalom station, Kute and Zaddy must face the Stewards. Ishbell and Zenith action their plan.Star Raiders is a Starfinder 1E actual-play anthology podcast. Exploring the unknown is part of the job for the members of Drebin Industries' Xenomineral Scout Team. But deep in The Vast they encounter more than they bargained for, turning their galaxy upside down.Of Moons and Men is our Pathfinder 2E podcast.Check out our website for more content, or support us on Patreon! To keep updated follow us on Instagram.Music: Dreamstate Logic

What does the story of Absalom have to do with Jesus and the cross? In this sermon we explore the striking parallels between two sons of David who reveal two radically different ways of becoming king. Discover how humility, self-giving love, and obedience bring a kingdom unlike any kingdom of this world.

This sermon explores the emotional and spiritual response to betrayal and perceived injustice, using Psalm 55 and the context of David's flight from Absalom as the primary framework. The speaker highlights David's human struggle with overwhelming sorrow and the temptation to react in anger, contrasting this with the wisdom of stepping back to evaluate the situation rather than responding hastily. The central message encourages believers to pour out their hearts to God in prayer, acknowledging their pain while recognizing that God is the ultimate judge who will bring justice in His own time. By citing Deuteronomy 32:35 and Romans 12:19, the sermon reinforces the theological truth that vengeance belongs to God, not to the individual. The tone is pastoral and comforting, urging the audience to cast their burdens upon the Lord, trusting that He will sustain them and handle difficult circumstances better than human effort alone.

Today our sermon will be from Psalm 55. Psalm 55 will be our new Psalm of Focus to sing as we work our way through the part in Second Samuel where we have the account of the coup that Absalom raised up against his father David who was God's Anointed King.

Dr. Oheneba Boadum, based on his book, has characterised spiritual obstacles as "Lucifer's Little Foxes" historically. Drawing from the Song of Solomon, he explores how internal emotional struggles, specifically anger and pride, can destroy a person's divine destiny and inheritance. His sermon utilizes biblical figures like Naboth, Samson, and Absalom to illustrate the difference between external threats and the more dangerous internal failures of character. He warns that while believers often pray against outside enemies, they frequently neglect the fox of anger, which can lead to long-term spiritual ruin and broken relationships. Ultimately, the source serves as a call for self-vigilance and the cultivation of spiritual fruits to protect one's life purpose.

Featuring David's relationship with his son Absalom compared with God's relationship with us from 2 Samuel 18:33 and Matthew 23:37.For more info, check out our websitehttps://treasurehuntpodcast.wixsite.com/realtreasureAlso on Spotify, Anchor, and wherever else you get your podcasts. If you would like to receive a daily email reminder, or if you have any questions or comments, or if you'd like a transcript of this podcast, just email us at treasurehuntintheword@gmail.com

Today’s archival episode with Marlon James was recorded in 2019 at the studios of KBOO community radio. Marlon’s latest book The Disappearers has garnered the most talked about book review of this year, from the New York Times book critic Dwight Garner (who isn't known to gush). Not only did he say it should be talked about alongside Faulkner's Absalom, Absalom, Morrison's Song of Solomon, and Rushdie's Midnight's Children, Garner also called it one of the signal reading experiences of his adult life, a masterpiece, the novel of the decade and possibly of the century so far. The book we discussed seven years ago now, was James' move into fantasy and myth, a novel that won the 2020 Locus Award for Best Horror, Black Leopard, Red Wolf. The science fiction and fantasy author and critic Amal El-Mohtar, perplexed by all the comparisons of it to George R.R. Martin and J.R.R. Tolkien suggested at the time that it was more as if Toni Morrison had written Ovid's Metamorphoses: “Painful and strange, full of bodies shifting from personhood into meat, and somehow, always, still, upsettingly beautiful. This isn’t Tolkien’s grief-stricken melancholy, or Martin’s calculating, character-forward plot mechanics; it’s horror and tragedy by way of fantasy, nothing discrete, everything penetrating everything else. Reading Black Leopard, Red Wolf was like being slowly eaten by a bear, one inviting me to feel every pressure of tooth and claw tearing into me, asking me to contemplate the intimacy of violation and occasionally cracking a joke.” For the bonus audio archive Marlon reads his essay “Why I’m Done Talking About Diversity (or, Why We Should Try an All-White Diversity Panel).” We also added his 2015 Tin House Summer Writing Workshop craft lecture “The 9 and 1/2 Rules of Seduction” to the archive. These join many contributions from past guests including Ted Chiang, China Miéville, N.K. Jemisin, Joe Sacco, Naomi Klein, Carl Phillips, Dionne Brand and many others. To learn about how to subscribe to the bonus audio, as well as about all the other potential benefits and rewards of joining the Between the Covers community as a listener-supporter, head over to the show’s Patreon page. Finally, for your book shopping needs, don’t miss Milkweed Editions bookstore on BookShop.

What happens when the sins of one generation ripple into the next? In 2 Samuel 13 through 15, we are confronted with one of the most sobering narratives in all of Scripture. The story of Amnon, Tamar, and Absalom forces us to reckon with a painful truth: the patterns we live out in front of those closest to us do not stay contained to us alone. We see David's failures reflected and amplified in his sons. Amnon leverages power for selfish gain, mirroring David's own abuse of power. Absalom swings between dangerous passivity and violent revenge, echoing the same contradictions we witnessed in his father. And through it all, Tamar, the one character who actually walks with integrity, is discarded and forgotten by the very people who should have protected her. The message cuts close to home because we recognize ourselves in these patterns. We are more like our earthly fathers than we often dare to admit. Yet the passage does not leave us without hope. Even in his brokenness, David casts himself entirely on the mercy of God, saying in effect that whatever seems good to God is good. That posture of surrender is the seed of something far greater that is still to come.

Class 1 from this series was used for Episode 417.

Michael Absalom joins the In Squash Podcast to discuss his journey in squash, from his early days in the sport through to his work in broadcasting and his transition from MC to SquashTV analyst and commentator. Michael shares his thoughts on the Shorbagy interview that made waves, the Asal hand grab controversy, the current men's game and the players at the top of the sport, as well as the return of Nouran Gohar and the women's game. We also look ahead to the new SquashTV season and discuss how squash broadcasting can continue to add value for fans. A great conversation with one of the familiar voices behind the modern presentation of professional squash. Follow Michael: @michaelabsalompresenter

"Absalom and Achitophel" by John Dryden is a powerful political satire that explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the complexities of power through the allegorical retelling of the biblical story of Absalom and David. This timeless work delves into the dynamics of political ambition and the moral dilemmas faced by leaders and their followers, making it a relevant listen for anyone interested in the intricacies of governance and human nature. Dryden's masterful use of verse and sharp wit invites listeners to reflect on the enduring struggles between authority and rebellion that continue to resonate in today's political landscape.

Absalom's revenge.

Absalom's revenge.

We're better together. We need community. We need the collective.We hear these ideas and believe in their truth. But when so many of us grew up learning that we're supposed to do it all on our own, letting go of individualism takes a lot of conscious unlearning.An individualist lens on leadership tells us that when things go wrong, we're both the source of the problem and responsible for the solution. We get stretched thin. We people please. We overfunction and overachieve, and still it never feels like we're doing enough.Shifting to a systemic lens on leadership, one that asks what the whole system needs and who else belongs in the conversation, is the difficult work we need to do in order to embrace the collective not just in heart and mind, but in action.My guest today speaks to the challenges of navigating systems that still reward hyper-individualism and the need to build real trust in others and our communities through his poems, essays, and artwork with deep conviction and clarity. I am so excited for you to listen to our conversation.David Gate is a poet, writer and visual artist who hails from London, UK and now resides in the mists of the ancient Blue Ridge Mountains in Asheville, North Carolina.His work centers around care for the individual (heart, mind, body & soul) and the nurture of community (culture, the earth &  environment, the dignity of others and spiritual communities).Listen to the full episode to hear:How the emotional distance and perspective of being in his 40s has shifted the lens of David's writingWhy true caring for each other is an act of rebellion in our hyper-individualist cultureHow a filter of care influences the choices David makes, both in the big picture and the day-to-dayHow having experienced financial precarity can shift how people relate to their resources and communitiesHow the process of writing and editing A Rebellion of Care helped David rediscover the power of writing essaysThe experience that helped David detach the practices of faith from the leadership norms that exist in many churchesLearn more about David Gate:davidgatepoet.comInstagram: @davidgatepoetA Rebellion of Care on SubstackA Rebellion of CareLearn more about Rebecca:rebeccaching.comWork With RebeccaThe Unburdened Leader on SubstackSign up for the weekly Unburdened Leader EmailResources:Reclaiming My Theology PodcastAbsalom, Absalom! William FaulknerLet the Poets Govern: A Declaration of Freedom, Camonghne FelixFather John Misty - The PayoffAndorHouse of the DragonMasters of the UniverseHe-Man and the Masters of the UniverseJoker: Folie à DeuxChapters:(00:39) - Introduction (06:42) - Reevaluating Inherited Culture (09:47) - Unlearning Evangelicalism (12:43) - Finding Emotional Stability (14:15) - Power and American Evangelicalism (16:22) - Why Care Is Rebellion (19:35) - Defining Care In Practice (22:34) - Mutual Aid And Money Fears (27:20) - Work Myth And Poverty Proximity (30:33) - Writing Process And Clarity (34:40) - Seattle Church Breakthrough (39:34) - Relationship with Privilege (41:31) - Servant Leadership Redefined (43:23) - Rapid Fire Questions (51:59) - Where to Connect (53:12) - Closing Thoughts

The Booker Prize–winning author Marlon James returns with The Disappearers, a deeply human story exploring queer life in Jamaica during the 1980s and 1990s. Marlon joined us live from Stony Brook University to talk about the consequences of violence, the loss of monoculture, Polari, post-colonial literature, and the X-Men with host Miwa Messer. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Miwa Messer and mixed by Harry Liang. New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books: The Disappearers by Marlon James Book of Night Women by Marlon James Black Leopard, Red Wolf by Marlon James Moon Witch, Spider King by Marlon James  A Brief History of Seven Killings by Marlon James Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel Bringing Up the Bodies by Hilary Mantel A Place of Greater Safety by Hilary Mantel Pygmalion by George Bernard Shaw Blood Meridian by Cormac McCarthy Dracula by Bram Stoker The Spirit of Science Fiction by Robert Bolaño Beloved by Toni Morrison A Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess Absalom, Absalom! by William Faulkner Bleak House by Charles Dickens Wide Sargasso Sea by Jean Rhys Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë A Single Man by Christopher Isherwood Flowers in the Attic by V.C. Andrews The Lonely Londoners by Sam Selvon A New World Order by Caryl Phillips The Correspondent by Virginia Evans The Children's Book by A.S. Byatt And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie The Godfather by Mario Puzo In the Hand of Dante by Nick Toches Nocturnes for the King of Naples by Edmund White Money by Martin Amis Bright Lights, Big City by Jay McInerney Dogeaters by Jessica Hagedon Tar Baby by Toni Morrison Moderation by Elaine Castillo James by Percival Everett Watchmen by Alan Moore & Dave Gibbons Tropic of Cancer by Henry Miller Lord of the Flies by William Golding X Men Comics Mrs. Dalloway by Virginia Woolf To The Lighthouse by Virginia Woolf The Waves by Virginia Woolf Ulysses by James Joyce The Odyssey by Homer

This week, Pastor Jim walks us through 2 Samuel 19–21, where David returns to Jerusalem and begins restoring the kingdom after Absalom's rebellion. Along the way, David faces difficult decisions, broken relationships, another rebellion, and the consequences of past sin. Through it all, we see both the complexity of David's leadership and the faithfulness of God to preserve His people. These chapters remind us that restoration can be messy, our choices often carry lasting consequences, and God remains faithful even in the middle of conflict and uncertainty.Text: 2 Samuel 19–21Recorded: September 6, 2026

In this study we will take a look at the women within the Bible. We will look at each one of them and see how their story influences our lives today.As we continue our study in this fantastic insight of the Women of the Bible, this morning we take a look at Zilchah, Potiphar's wife.THE FAILED SEDUCTION OF JOSEPHPotiphar's Wife Cries 'Rape!'Genesis 39Potiphar's (belonging to the sun) wife tried to seduce Joseph, a slave in her husband's household in Egypt. Joseph refused her, and she took her revenge by accusing him of attempted rape. Joseph resisted the allure of a foreign woman (and a foreign culture) by staying true to Israelite ways, but there was a price to pay.Pot'iphar. An Egyptian name, also written Potipherah, signifies belonging to the sun. Potiphar. With whom the history of Joseph is connected, is described as an officer of Pharaoh; chief of the executioners, an Egyptian." Gen. 39:1. Compare Gen. 37:36. (B.C. 1728).He appears to have been a wealthy man. Gen. 39:4-6. The view we have of Potiphar's household, is exactly in accordance with the representations on the monuments. When Joseph was accused, his master contented himself with casting him into prison. Gen. 39:19-20. After this, we hear no more of Potiphar. What the story is aboutThe story of Potiphar's wife is all about the difference between Egypt and Israel. Different ideals, different cultures, different practices.   Why is this particular story in the Bible? Because the seductive nature of Egyptian culture always posed a danger to the honesty of Israelite culture.  Egypt's sophistication was admired throughout the ancient world, and many people came under its influence. The Israelites led by Moses would eventually flee from it, just as, in this story, Joseph fled from an appealing Egyptian woman.The time period for the story is uncertain, but it seems to be set during the Middle Kingdom, somewhere around 1727 BC. Potiphar may have been 'Ptahwer', an officer of Pharaoh Ahmenemhet III, but there is no real evidence either way. The story happens during a period of economic prosperity. The story unfolds in the household of a rich man, Potiphar, who owns many slaves. One of these is the Hebrew Joseph, a man of unusual ability who has been placed in control of Potiphar's large estate and household.  The story contains three central episodes:1 Background details for the story (Genesis 39:1-6) 2 The wife's attempted seduction of Joseph (Genesis 39:7-12) 3 The wife's accusation (Genesis 39:13-20)1  Captain of the guard = The idea behind this title means chief of police, or probably more precisely, Potiphar was head of Pharaoh's personal security force. He was a highly trusted official in the government of Egypt.Bought him from the Ishmaelites = Joseph was a slave. He seemed to have no control over his destiny but was bought and sold like a piece of property. He could have ended up with anyone, but Potiphar bought him.In Genesis Chapter 37 beginning with verse 12 we read about Joseph brothers devise a plan to kill him, but then Reuben steps in and convinces them to cast Joseph into a pit. Then we read in verse 25 that the Ishmaelites come by and Judah gets a brain storm and convinces his brothers to sell Joseph to these Ishmaelites, for 20 pieces of silver. (20 in Biblical Numeric's is disappointed expectancy. 20 is the double of ten, and may in some cases signify its concentrated meaning. But its significance seems rather to be connected with the fact that it is one short of twenty-one, 21 - 1 = 20; that is to say, if 21 is the three-fold 7, and signifies Divine (3) completion as regards spiritual perfection (7), then twenty, being one short of 21, it would signify what Dr. Milo Mahan calls expectancy) (2-3) Yahweh is with Joseph. (4-6) Yahweh blesses Potiphar for Joseph's sake.6   Now Joseph was handsome in form and appearance = Joseph's appearance was of special note. The Bible only calls two other men beautiful: David (1 Samuel 16:12) and Absalom (2 Samuel 14:25). Moses was said to be a beautiful child (Exodus 2:2). Joseph was the first son of the Hebrew brave woman, Rachel. He had every Yahweh-given advantage except personal freedom: he was handsome, intelligent, and shrewd - a born leader. He also had Yahweh's special favor. But he was a slave, although one of the high-ranking and influential servants who exercised power in ancient households and court circles.    After being kidnapped and sold into slavery, Gen. 37, Joseph found himself in the household of the second man in the story, a wealthy officer in Pharaoh's service, Potiphar, who became Joseph's master. By being forced of hard work and his own native intelligence, Joseph rose through the ranks of the household slaves, eventually becoming overseer of Potiphar's household and estates. Under Joseph's supervision, everything ran smoothly, and Potiphar was left free of responsibility, able to devote himself to his one great passion, food. ‘…he had no concern for anything but the food that he ate.' There is nothing wrong with enjoyment of food, but the implication of the text is that Potiphar had no interest in any of the other normal pleasures of life, including sex with his wife.  The Hebrew text uses the word 'saris' to describe him. This can mean 'courtier', 'someone who belongs to the king', but elsewhere in the Old Testament 'saris' is used to describe a eunuch.  Potiphar was married and therefore cannot have been a eunuch, but there may be a sly suggestion that Potiphar's sexual prowess was not all it should have been.   Potiphar's Wife tries to seduce Joseph - Genesis 39:7-127  His master's wife cast longing eyes on Joseph, and she said, “Lie with me” = Potiphar's wife was undeniably forward towards Joseph. Literally, Potiphar is called a eunuch of Pharaoh (Genesis 39:1). If Potiphar was literally a castrated eunuch, perhaps his wife looked for sexual activity elsewhere.i. Maybe Potiphar's wife felt deprived. It was possible that Potiphar was a eunuch, and the marriage was purely a ceremonial arrangement. It may be that she felt free to pursue sexual pleasure outside the marriage. This attitude is common today, and our modern culture believes people are deprived unless they pursue every sexual desire they feel. This is a lie and makes our sexual desires gods that rule one's life.ii. Also, it seems that in ancient Egypt there were low moral expectations on women, even married women. It was often assumed that women would have sex outside marriage. Potiphar's wife wasn't looking for a relationship, just a good time. Again, our modern culture promotes the idea that sex is great and often better apart from meaningful relationships. The truth – both biblically and lived out in life – is that sex is far better in committed, married relationship; that sex means something.iii. Joseph was an attractive man (Genesis 39:6) and perhaps this had something to do with the longing of Potiphar's wife. That he seemed beyond her reach was also probably a factor. If this was so, then she was not the first or last woman who tried to seduce a man out of a sense of challenge or in seeking self-worth. Potiphar's wife may have looked to Joseph with a desperate attempt to feel desirable and worth something.Lie with me = This was bold and a strong temptation to Joseph. It reminds the believer that when they face strong temptations, others have also faced them.i. Satan wants Yahweh's people to think their temptations are unique; that no other person could understand what they are going through in a particular temptation. The Bible reminds the believer there is no temptation that has overtaken us except what is common among people (1 Corinthians 10:13).ii. “Slavery itself was a small calamity compared with that which would have happened to young Joseph had he been enslaved by wicked passions.” (Spurgeon)(13-18) Potiphar's wife falsely accuses Joseph before Potiphar.(19-20) Joseph is sent to prison.Summary  This story explores the moral vacuum in the heart of a rich, bored woman. She has power over other people's lives, but none over her own. She lacks the children she had a right to expect, and she lacks the love of her husband. In short, she has no purpose. As the story unfolds, we realize that Joseph the slave was able to exercise more control over circumstances than she was.  In an apparently vulnerable position, Joseph was able to resist the allure of a foreign woman and a foreign culture. Both tried to entice him, but he stayed true to the Israelite moral code, which had a different understanding of the rights of men and women.  'In the Joseph story, good things happen to bad people, bad things turn out to be good things by misadventure. It is no coincidence that just after the sale of Joseph into slavery, Judah enters into ambiguous sexual relations with a Canaanite daughter-in-law, Tamar. Join me as we go Chapter by Chapter, Verse by Verse, Unraveling the Words of Yahweh!Have any questions? Feel free to email me; keitner2024@outlook.com

Biblical definition of love and hate. Absalom's unbiblical response.

Biblical definition of love and hate. Absalom's unbiblical response.

Join us as we explore the power of divine wisdom, loyalty, and abiding faith in this live online reading of 2 Samuel 17 and John 15. Experience the high-stakes narrative of David's escape from Absalom—where strategic counsel determines the fate of a kingdom—and pair it with Jesus's timeless reminder that He is the true vine and we are the branches. Whether you are seeking spiritual nourishment, practical wisdom for life's challenges, or a deeper understanding of Scripture, this reading offers a compelling look at how God's sovereignty in the Old Testament illuminates His ultimate command to love and abide in Christ today.Connect with us on social:Telegram: @beholdisraelchannelInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/amir.tsarfati/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beholdisrael/X: https://x.com/beholdisraelYouTube: https://youtube.com/@beholdisrael

We explore King David's efforts to renew his kingship and reunify the 12 tribes of Israel at Gilgal after Absalom's defeat. Delve into the historical significance of Gilgal as a place of new beginnings, from Joshua's time to the establishment of Saul's kingdom. Witness David's strategic pardoning of enemies and rewarding of allies to foster peace amidst tribal tensions. Learn about the challenges David faces, including Sheba's rebellion and Joab's violent actions. Discover how a wise woman's intervention ultimately secures David's rule over a united Israel. Support the showRead along with us in the Bible Brief App! Try the Bible Brief book for an offline experience!Get your free Bible Timeline with the 10 Steps: Timeline LinkSupport the show: Tap here to become a monthly supporter!Review the show: Tap here!Want to go deeper?...Download the Bible Brief App!iPhone: App Store LinkAndroid: Play Store LinkWant a physical book? Check out "Bible Brief" by our founder!Amazon: Amazon LinkWebsite: biblebrief.orgInstagram: @realbiblebriefX: @biblebriefFacebook: @realbiblebriefEmail the Show: biblebrief@biblelit.orgWant to learn the Bible languages (Greek & Hebrew)? Check out our partner Biblingo (and use our link/code for a discount!): https://biblin...

If you have kids, and one of them has rebelled against you, or walked away from their faith, you'll identify with David's predicament. David's son Absalom has spent quite some time trying to kill his father, and yet, after his attempts fail and Absalom dies, David mourns over the loss of his son. What a beautiful expression of Godly love and a forgiving nature. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/621/29?v=20251111

We delve into the dramatic downfall of Absalom, son of King David. Witness the unfolding of God's judgment as Absalom's rebellion against his father reaches its climax. The story unfolds with political intrigue, battle strategies, and divine intervention in the forest of Ephraim. Key events include Absalom's fateful encounter with an oak tree, Joab's defiance of David's orders, and David's heart-wrenching grief over his son.Support the showRead along with us in the Bible Brief App! Try the Bible Brief book for an offline experience!Get your free Bible Timeline with the 10 Steps: Timeline LinkSupport the show: Tap here to become a monthly supporter!Review the show: Tap here!Want to go deeper?...Download the Bible Brief App!iPhone: App Store LinkAndroid: Play Store LinkWant a physical book? Check out "Bible Brief" by our founder!Amazon: Amazon LinkWebsite: biblebrief.orgInstagram: @realbiblebriefX: @biblebriefFacebook: @realbiblebriefEmail the Show: biblebrief@biblelit.orgWant to learn the Bible languages (Greek & Hebrew)? Check out our partner Biblingo (and use our link/code for a discount!): https://biblin...

We delve into the dramatic story of Absalom's plot against his father, King David. Explore the intricate web of family conflict, political intrigue, and divine judgment as Absalom's rebellion unfolds. From his cunning manipulation of the people to his audacious coup in Jerusalem, witness the fulfillment of Nathan's prophecy against David. Learn how David's past sins reverberate through his family, leading to betrayal and civil upheaval. This episode examines themes of power, loyalty, and the consequences of sin, while highlighting David's faith in God amidst adversity. Discover the roles of key figures like Ahithophel, Hushai, and Joab in this pivotal moment of Israel's history. Support the showRead along with us in the Bible Brief App! Try the Bible Brief book for an offline experience!Get your free Bible Timeline with the 10 Steps: Timeline LinkSupport the show: Tap here to become a monthly supporter!Review the show: Tap here!Want to go deeper?...Download the Bible Brief App!iPhone: App Store LinkAndroid: Play Store LinkWant a physical book? Check out "Bible Brief" by our founder!Amazon: Amazon LinkWebsite: biblebrief.orgInstagram: @realbiblebriefX: @biblebriefFacebook: @realbiblebriefEmail the Show: biblebrief@biblelit.orgWant to learn the Bible languages (Greek & Hebrew)? Check out our partner Biblingo (and use our link/code for a discount!): https://biblin...

We explore the profound consequences of sin through the story of King David. Delving into themes of repentance, forgiveness, and generational impact, we examine how David's adultery with Bathsheba and the murder of Uriah set off a chain of events affecting his family and kingdom. The episode highlights David's heartfelt confession in Psalm 51, God's merciful response, and the subsequent fallout in David's household. We discuss Amnon's assault on Tamar and Absalom's vengeful murder of Amnon, illustrating how sin's effects can echo through generations. This powerful narrative underscores the importance of genuine repentance, the weight of personal choices, and God's enduring grace in the face of human failings.Support the showRead along with us in the Bible Brief App! Try the Bible Brief book for an offline experience!Get your free Bible Timeline with the 10 Steps: Timeline LinkSupport the show: Tap here to become a monthly supporter!Review the show: Tap here!Want to go deeper?...Download the Bible Brief App!iPhone: App Store LinkAndroid: Play Store LinkWant a physical book? Check out "Bible Brief" by our founder!Amazon: Amazon LinkWebsite: biblebrief.orgInstagram: @realbiblebriefX: @biblebriefFacebook: @realbiblebriefEmail the Show: biblebrief@biblelit.orgWant to learn the Bible languages (Greek & Hebrew)? Check out our partner Biblingo (and use our link/code for a discount!): https://biblin...

This week, Pastor Jim walks us through 2 Samuel 16–18, where David continues to face the consequences of Absalom's rebellion. As David is cursed, betrayed, and forced to prepare for battle against his own son, he continues to trust God through the uncertainty. The conflict eventually ends with Absalom's death, leaving David heartbroken despite the victory. These chapters remind us that sin brings painful consequences, but God remains sovereign even in the middle of betrayal, loss, and circumstances we cannot control.Text: 2 Samuel 16–18Recorded: August 30, 2026

This lesson is about Psalm 3 and how to deal with fear, anxiety, hurt, and difficult circumstances by trusting God. David wrote the Psalm while running for his life because his own son, Absalom, had betrayed him and was trying to take his throne. Even though David was surrounded by enemies and had every reason to be afraid, he chose to turn to God instead of letting fear control him. The main message is that you don’t have to pretend your problems aren’t real—you can honestly identify what you’re afraid of, recognize that God is still with and protecting you, rest in His care, and trust Him with the outcome. The sermon summarizes this with four steps: identify your fear, shift your perspective toward God’s protection, rest in God’s sustaining care, and entrust your deliverance to God.

Absalom's reaction.

Absalom's reaction.

We've been spotlighting the life of David - learning from his strengths and also his weaknesses. Speaking of which, Second Samuel chapters fifteen through eighteen records the rebellion of David's son Absalom. It underscores the difficulty of raising children and the strength needed when there's failure. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/621/29?v=20251111

Psalm 3 | David fleeing from Absalom | 25 August 2026

Pastor Taylor does a character study on ABSALOM and how we need to watch ourselves and catch the sins and problems that can creep up on us if we aren't careful. Carrying ourselves as God has called us to be and grow in that! follow us on instagram @reallifechurchwa 26201 180th Ave. SE Covington, WA 98042 Sundays @ 8:30 | 10 | 11:30

Anchor Passage: (Psalm 55, 2 Samuel 15:12)David was betrayed by Ahithophel, his close friend and counselor. He joined the rebellion against David—a rebellion started by David's son, Absalom. In Psalm 55, David describes the pain of a friend's insults as very different from that of an enemy. Join us as we discover how to respond to betrayal and pain by casting our cares on God!

This week, Pastor Jim walks us through 2 Samuel 15, where Absalom's rebellion against David begins to unfold. Absalom slowly wins over the hearts of the people and eventually turns against his own father, forcing David to flee Jerusalem. In the middle of betrayal and uncertainty, David responds with humility and continues to trust God with the outcome.Text: 2 Samuel 15 Recorded: August 23, 2026

To have loyalty means that there are quite possibly those who are betraying you. King David faced this from his very own son, Absalom. It's a sad story - but not without hope - and an important lesson to be learned. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/621/29?v=20251111

The sermon explores Psalm 3 as a profound declaration of Christ's ultimate victory amidst earthly opposition, drawing parallels between King David's flight from Absalom and Jesus' rejection by His own people. It emphasizes that while the church faces intense hostility and internal strife, believers can find assurance in God's sovereign protection and providence. Pastor Ward highlights how David's trust in the Lord as a shield and source of rest prefigures the Savior's reliance on the Father during His passion. This passage instructs Christians to respond to persecution with prayerful confidence rather than fear, recognizing that salvation is entirely the Lord's gift. Ultimately, the message calls listeners to rest in Christ's finished work and extend mercy to their enemies as He has extended it to them.

Step into two powerful stories of betrayal, leadership, humility, and love. Follow David through Absalom's rebellion and discover Jesus' profound lesson in servant leadership as He washes His disciples' feet. This time we are joined by special guest Stanley Strunz from Poland.Connect with us on social:Telegram: @beholdisraelchannelInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/amir.tsarfati/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beholdisrael/X: https://x.com/beholdisraelYouTube: https://youtube.com/@beholdisrael

Today on Sound Doctrine, pastor Jeff returns to Second Samuel. In chapter thirteen, we encounter a strained relationship between a father and son. This results in Absalom the King having his half-brother Amnon killed. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/621/29?v=20251111

Today we look again at Second Samuel thirteen. It's remarkable that a man named Absalom will draw the hearts of the nation away from King David and become King himself. Absalom was handsome and winsome… but that's all he was. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/621/29?v=20251111

When life hits you with grief, disorientation, or feeling utterly forsaken by God, prose often falls short. The Book of Psalms gives us a sacred language to pour out our hearts—whether we are crying out "Help!", singing "Thanks!", or standing in awe of "Wow!" Summary: In this inspiring study of Psalms 1–48, we step out of historical analysis and into the sanctuary of the heart. Often called the "Preface of Jesus Christ," the Psalter offers a timeless collection of prayers, hymns, and prophecies that directly mirror the Savior's life, death, and resurrection. Music as a Lowest and Highest Gear: We explore how David's music soothed Saul's troubled soul and why singing the "song of the heart" is recognized by the Lord as a form of pure prayer. Tree Planted by the Waters vs. Chaff: We analyze Psalm 1, contrasting the deep-rooted disciple who meditates on God's law day and night with the wind-blown "chaff" of ungrounded philosophies. Psalms of Disorientation: We look at David's raw, unfiltered prayers during his lowest moments—such as fleeing from his son Absalom in Psalm 3—and discover how to hold onto hope when family relationships fracture. The Crucifixion Blueprint: We step into the agonizing Messianic prophecies of Psalms 21 and 22, discovering why Jesus uttered the opening line of Psalm 22 ("My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?") while hanging on the cross. The Good Shepherd & The Temple Gate: We savor the poetic imagery of Psalm 23 and the temple entrance requirements of Psalm 24 ("clean hands and a pure heart"). Be Still and Know: We conclude with the quiet sanctuary of Psalms 46–48, learning how to slow down, disconnect from constant distractions, and find Zion in our daily lives. Call-to-Action: The monk John Cassian counseled his brothers to recite the Psalms not as the words of David, but as "your very own prayer." Which verse in Psalms 1–48 felt like it was written specifically for your heart today? Let's share our favorite lines in the comments below. To keep your spiritual foundation deep and "Unshaken," please like, subscribe, and share this video! Chapter Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction to the Psalms 15:46 Instructional Psalm (1) 22:38 History & Prophecy, David & Absalom (2-3) 33:47 Pondering, Prayer, Penitence, & Precaution (4-7) 45:38 Psalms of Praise (8-9) 53:00 Trouble & Trust (10-14) 1:11:27 Worthiness, Loyalty, Sincerity, & Thanksgiving (15-18) 1:31:05 Creation, Law, & Victory (19-20) 1:35:47 Messianic Psalms, Gethsemane & Calvary (21-22) 1:56:31 The Lord Is My Shepherd (23) 2:05:44 The House of the Lord & Humble Petitions (24-25) 2:14:53 Temple Worthiness & Readiness (26-27) 2:32:42 Plea, Praise, & Prayer (28-30) 2:37:41 Deliverance for Christ & through Christ (31) 2:44:32 Confession, Hiding, & Hope (32-34) 2:55:53 False Witnesses & Wickedness (35-37) 3:04:30 Forgiveness, Relief, & Thanksgiving (38-40) 3:16:40 Breaking Bread & Thirsting after Water (41-45) 3:30:59 Songs of Zion (46-48) 3:38:42 Conclusion

2nd Samuel Series  Message: 22 Episode: 3 of 3 Broadcast: August 17, 2026 Key Verses: 2nd Samuel 19:24-43 In this episode of Walk in Truth, Pastor Michael Lantz teaches through 2 Samuel 19:24–43 in a message titled "Complicated Relationships." As David returns to Jerusalem after Absalom's rebellion, he encounters a series of difficult relationships marked by loyalty, misunderstanding, generosity, and division. Through the stories of Mephibosheth, Barzillai, and the people of Israel, this passage reveals how complicated relationships can test our character, wisdom, and ability to extend grace. Pastor Michael unpacks these encounters to help believers understand the importance of listening carefully, showing mercy, and pursuing peace even when relationships are messy or difficult. This practical teaching will help equip you to walk through life as a Christian with wisdom, humility, and grace, applying God's truth to your relationships and trusting Him to guide you through life's complicated circumstances. Welcome to Walk in Truth! These are the Bible teachings of Pastor Michael Lantz. Equipping you to reach out with God's truth to all people. And how to apply that truth to today's issues, trends, and culture.  Leave your question or comment contact@walkintruth.com  

This week, Pastor Jim walks us through 2 Samuel 13–14, where we see the painful consequences of David's sin begin to unfold within his own family. Amnon's sin against Tamar leads to bitterness, revenge, and ultimately Absalom's rebellion against his father. These chapters remind us that sin never stays contained and that even when forgiveness is possible, our choices can have lasting consequences. Through it all, we see the need for wisdom, repentance, and reconciliation in the midst of brokenness.Text: 2 Samuel 13–14 Recorded: August 16, 2026

Rev. Patrick Donohue

2nd Samuel Series  Message: 22 Episode: 2 of 3 Broadcast: August 14, 2026 Key Verses: 2nd Samuel 19:24-43 In this episode of Walk in Truth, Pastor Michael Lantz teaches through 2 Samuel 19:24–43 in a message titled "Complicated Relationships." As David returns to Jerusalem after Absalom's rebellion, he encounters a series of difficult relationships marked by loyalty, misunderstanding, generosity, and division. Through the stories of Mephibosheth, Barzillai, and the people of Israel, this passage reveals how complicated relationships can test our character, wisdom, and ability to extend grace. Pastor Michael unpacks these encounters to help believers understand the importance of listening carefully, showing mercy, and pursuing peace even when relationships are messy or difficult. This practical teaching will help equip you to walk through life as a Christian with wisdom, humility, and grace, applying God's truth to your relationships and trusting Him to guide you through life's complicated circumstances. Welcome to Walk in Truth! These are the Bible teachings of Pastor Michael Lantz. Equipping you to reach out with God's truth to all people. And how to apply that truth to today's issues, trends, and culture.  Leave your question or comment contact@walkintruth.com  

2nd Samuel Series  Message: 22 Episode: 1 of 3 Broadcast: August 13, 2026 Key Verses: 2nd Samuel 19:24-43 In this episode of Walk in Truth, Pastor Michael Lantz teaches through 2 Samuel 19:24–43 in a message titled "Complicated Relationships." As David returns to Jerusalem after Absalom's rebellion, he encounters a series of difficult relationships marked by loyalty, misunderstanding, generosity, and division. Through the stories of Mephibosheth, Barzillai, and the people of Israel, this passage reveals how complicated relationships can test our character, wisdom, and ability to extend grace. Pastor Michael unpacks these encounters to help believers understand the importance of listening carefully, showing mercy, and pursuing peace even when relationships are messy or difficult. This practical teaching will help equip you to walk through life as a Christian with wisdom, humility, and grace, applying God's truth to your relationships and trusting Him to guide you through life's complicated circumstances. Welcome to Walk in Truth! These are the Bible teachings of Pastor Michael Lantz. Equipping you to reach out with God's truth to all people. And how to apply that truth to today's issues, trends, and culture.  Leave your question or comment contact@walkintruth.com  

Marlon and Jake tackle the writers they have no interest in revisiting, asking when it's worth giving a beloved (or notorious) author another chance and when it's perfectly fine to walk away for good. Tune in as they debate literary canon, books that simply aren't for them, the difference between a difficult author and a difficult book, and why sometimes the most honest review is, "Nobody needs to go back to that" Subscribe to our River-herd digital newsletter and our print newspaper, The Eddy, for sneak peeks of our upcoming books, free giveaways, and exclusive content: https://sites.prh.com/the-eddy-newspaper. The Executioner series by Don Pendleton Hotel by Arthur Hailey Airport by Arthur Hailey Wheels by Arthur Hailey The Moneychangers by Arthur Hailey Advise and Consent by Allen Drury Shōgun by James Clavell Tai-Pan by James Clavell King Rat by James Clavell Whirlwind by James Clavell Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas by Hunter S. Thompson The Rum Diary by Hunter S. Thompson Light in August by William Faulkner Absalom, Absalom! by William Faulkner The Sound and the Fury by William Faulkner As I Lay Dying by William Faulkner Pylon by William Faulkner In Cold Blood by Truman Capote Music for Chameleons by Truman Capote Answered Prayers by Truman Capote “Where Is the Voice Coming from?” by Eudora Welty The Ballad of the Sad Café by Carson McCullers The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter by Carson McCullers Tess of the d'Urbervilles by Thomas Hardy Jude the Obscure by Thomas Hardy The Return of a Native by Thomas Hardy The Golden Notebook by Doris Lessing The Summer Before the Dark by Doris Lessing Children of Violence series by Doris Lessing Pentimento by Lillian Hellman Scoundrel Time by Lillian Hellman An Unfinished Woman by Lillian Hellman The Blithedale Romance by Nathaniel Hawthorne The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne Appointment in Samarra by John O'Hara Butterfield 8 by John O'Hara A Rage to Live by John O'Hara Sophie's Choice by William Styron Grendel by John Gardner October Light by John Gardner The Art of Fiction by John Gardner On Moral Fiction by John Gardner The Water Babies by Charles Kingsley The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett Giant by Edna Ferber Soul on Ice by Eldridge Cleaver A Distant Mirror by Barbara W. Tuchman Once Is Not Enough by Jacqueline Susann Burr by Gore Vidal The Godfather by Mario Puzo In the Hand of Dante by Nick Tosches Delina Delaney by Amanda McKittrick Ros Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl Stuart Little by E. B. White The Railway Children by Edith Nesbit Flowers in the Attic by V.C. Andrews Jaws by Peter Benchley

The ancient Egyptian pharaoh Ramesses II thought so much of himself that he had numerous structures served up in his honor, including many monuments that captured his physical features. One, the colossal statue of Ramesses II, stands thirty-six feet tall and weighs eighty-three tons in all its red-granite glory. Age wasn’t kind to the proud ruler, however. In fact, when he died he was suffering from bad teeth, arthritis, and chronic heart problems. Some of his monuments might last for a while, but—like all mortals—he himself passed. Absalom, one of King David’s sons, also built “a monument to himself” (2 Samuel 18:18). Fueled by rage from past tragedy (see ch. 13) and selfish ambition, this younger man worked to steal “the hearts of all the people of Israel” (15:6) from his father. When Absalom attempted to pilfer the throne, however, God did not allow him to overpower David, His anointed king (1 Samuel 16:12-13), and David's fighting men (2 Samuel 18:6). In the end, Absalom was killed for his treachery. Although his monument still stood (v. 18), he died humbled and defeated. Building monuments to ourselves and serving our own pride and desires won’t end well. But as we humbly serve God and love Him well (Philippians 2:3-8), we’ll find true meaning and fulfillment in His presence.