The Example of the Biblical Response to Stone Throwers

Scripture: 2 Samuel 16:10-11

But the king said, "What have I to do with you, O sons of Zeruiah? If he curses, and if the LORD has told him, 'Curse David,' then who shall say, 'Why have you done so?'" Then David said to Abishai and to all his servants, "Behold, my son who came out from me seeks my life; how much more now this Benjamite? Let him alone and let him curse, for the LORD has told him.

Insights: Today we observe the proper biblical response to stone throwers.  David stops Abishai from taking the head of Shimei.  What David does next is put the entire situation in the proper perspective.  It is my opinion this failure to put things in the proper perspective is one of the biggest reasons we do not respond well to stone throwers.  David completely understands the sovereignty of God.  Notice the last part of verse eleven.  In essence, David is saying, “God has the power to stop the words of Shimei, but He is not for some reason.  Because the Lord is permitting this event to happen, I will bear up under it.”  Now, Beloved, as you have read those words, you were probably not very comforted.  You may be saying something like, “Great, just one more thing with which to burden my life down.”  Well, that is what tomorrows Thoughts by Scott will address.  What is the reason we ought to bear up under these stone throwers false words?  Again, we will find out tomorrow.  One last thought, however, for today.  David’s response is in some fashion similar to Jesus.  When Jesus was brought before His accusers and stone throwers He did not speak a word.  Again, why would Jesus respond this way?  The answer fits with tomorrow’s blog.  So, make certain you return Friday and learn the power behind our ability to resist the sting of stone throwers.

Questions:

1. Do you understand the Lord has the power to stop the stone thrower, but, for whatever reason, is allowing the person to speak?
2. Does this reality help you put things into perspective?

Prayer: Father, Your Son, Jesus, spoke not a word to His accusers and stone throwers.  Help me Lord to follow Jesus’ example and keep my situation in the proper perspective.  Amen.