Topic: Beware of Deception
Opening Prayer: Lord, I pray that you lead me into your truth as I meditate on your word in Jesus name.
Scripture: 2 Samuel 15:1–18
Reflection
• Is there any example for me to follow or not to follow?
• Is there any warning for me to heed?
Right from the Garden of Eden, Satan has always used subtle means to deceive man and make him to believe lies rather than the truth (Genesis 3:1–4). In the same way, he used those who agreed with Absalom’s rebellious instinct to deceive the gullible. Notice the tactics Absalom employed to win the hearts of the ordinary Israelites (vv.1–6)?
The Bible warns us to beware of false humility as exemplified by Absalom who stood on the road to welcome people and kissed them with ulterior motive. David again fell to the deceit of Absalom. He did not scrutinise his son’s well–designed request, so he was let loose to travel to and finalise his evil act in Hebron (vv.7–8).
What are the lessons for us as we consider the requests of our children? See vv.1–6, 7–8 & 10–12. Also, examine the various ways Absalom deceived those engaged in disputes, his father David, the 200 innocent men and the priests. What lessons can you draw from this? We must act fast in urgent matters, as David did in vv.13–18, to avoid the destruction of lives and properties.
⁂ Any new insight or reinforcement of what you already know?
Practice/Word Application
• Be careful when people approach you with sweet–coated words to join a cause that you do not fully understand.
Prayer Points
• Dear Lord, deliver me from the subtle deceit of men.
• Pray that God would give Nigeria leaders that respect human rights.
• Offer a prayer of faith in line with Deuteronomy 11:15
Read the Bible in one Year
Psalms 16–17; Acts 12
Scripture Union Daily Guide 15 July 2020 – Scripture Union is an international, inter-denominational, evangelical Christian organization. It was founded in 1867, and works in partnership with individuals and churches across the world. The organization’s stated aim is to use the Bible to inspire children, young people and adults to know God