THE ULTIMATE POLITICIAN
II Samuel 15:1, 4-6
"After this it happened that Absalom provided himself with chariots and horses, and fifty men to run before him .... Moreover Absalom, would say, 'Oh that I were made judge in the land, and everyone who has any suit or cause would come to me; then I would give him justice.' And so it was, whenever anyone came near to bow down to him, that he would put out his hand and take him and kiss him. In this manner Absalom acted toward all Israel who came to the king for judgment. So Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel."
In his pride, Absalom's agenda was to depose David and make himself king. His plan was to exalt himself by self-promotion, and by glad-handing the people and giving them what they wanted. His "justice" would be tailored to fulfill the person's desire, even if he had to speak out of both sides of his mouth to make everyone happy – "a chicken in every pot." Does this sound like a politician, or what? I am skeptical of people who elevate themselves and try to gain my loyalty by ingratiating themselves to me, especially if they are in rebellion against authority. They do not have my interest at heart – only their own. They are untrustworthy.
TODAY'S PRINCIPLE: People who exalt themselves and speak with words dripping with honey cannot be trusted and should not be followed.
[end]
Have a discerning day. Love you.
II Samuel 15:1, 4-6
"After this it happened that Absalom provided himself with chariots and horses, and fifty men to run before him .... Moreover Absalom, would say, 'Oh that I were made judge in the land, and everyone who has any suit or cause would come to me; then I would give him justice.' And so it was, whenever anyone came near to bow down to him, that he would put out his hand and take him and kiss him. In this manner Absalom acted toward all Israel who came to the king for judgment. So Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel."
In his pride, Absalom's agenda was to depose David and make himself king. His plan was to exalt himself by self-promotion, and by glad-handing the people and giving them what they wanted. His "justice" would be tailored to fulfill the person's desire, even if he had to speak out of both sides of his mouth to make everyone happy – "a chicken in every pot." Does this sound like a politician, or what? I am skeptical of people who elevate themselves and try to gain my loyalty by ingratiating themselves to me, especially if they are in rebellion against authority. They do not have my interest at heart – only their own. They are untrustworthy.
TODAY'S PRINCIPLE: People who exalt themselves and speak with words dripping with honey cannot be trusted and should not be followed.
[end]
Have a discerning day. Love you.
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