Christian Devotional – October 7, 2014

Read 2 Samuel chapter 14

VERSE:

2 Samuel 14:24–But the king said, “He must go to his own house; he must not see my face.” So Absalom went to his own house and did not see the face of the king.

TRUTH:

David allowed Absalom to return after murdering his brother, but he didn’t truly forgive him. David wouldn’t allow Absalom back into his presence. We often treat forgiveness like this. We say and do the very minimal necessary in order to say we’ve forgiven, but we don’t attempt any restoration. The scripture never says that Absalom repented of his sins, but still, David only half-heartedly attempts to forgive. When we forgive, is it a half-hearted attempt done out of a sense of obligation or duty? Or, do we seek full forgiveness just as Christ forgave us?

RESPONSE:

Father, You are the Lord of forgiveness. You make it possible to forgive others. Help me to see people as You see them and to offer forgiveness through You so it will be complete.