One Ammorite King

From the Desk of David Boyd, National BGMC Director

Have you ever made a mistake? I know I have. I’ve also come to realize that it’s much easier to learn from others’ mistakes than by making them yourself. Second Samuel chapter 10 describes a serious mistake made by a new Ammorite king. King David sent a delegation to welcome the new king, but the king’s advisors convinced him to treat this delegation spies as spies. They treated the members shamefully by stripping off their clothing and cutting off half of their beards. This was a huge offense to King David.

What can we learn from this mistake? First, choose those whom you listen to wisely. If you surround yourself with inexperienced advisors, they can lead you in the wrong direction. Second, be very careful to understand intent before you react. King David meant only respect. The Ammorite king created an enemy out of a friend.

Once the young Ammorite king learned he had greatly offended King David, he should have personally apologized and personally accepted responsibility for his actions. Instead he made matters worse.  He hired an army and prepared for war. In the end, between 40,000 and 50,000 people lost their lives because of his lack of wisdom.

Your decisions often have consequences for your church, your ministry, your family, and others. Pray that God will give you wisdom to deal with people wisely. Always believe the best, not the worst.  Be willing to apologize and forgive. Many of the friends I have today are people I’ve had to forgive in the past. God places children and leaders in your care so that you can lead and care for them. Be wise, be patient, and be humble. Ask God to lead you in all your decisions.

God bless!