Pastor Marshall Ochs | October 1, 2023
In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 2 Samuel 19-20. These chapters cover the return of King David and his tribulations with his commander, Joab. David and Joab have very different ways of solving problems and the author contrasts their leadership styles for personal reflection. When rebuilding after failure, do you approach situations with humility like David or with arrogance and pride like Joab?
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We see David and his family suffering the consequences of his sins. Even though we repent and are forgiven of our sins, there are some consequences we must endure that can be very costly – to us and others. David chose the path of humility and reconciliation. How do you rebuild after a failure?
In this passage we see the stark contrast between David and Joab. David chose humility and Joab chose vengeance and violence. What is your initial reaction when faced with an injustice? Is it anger and the need to get even or forgiveness and a desire for reconciliation?
David’s desire to lead with forgiveness and generosity is how our Heavenly Father deals with us. Our King came to pardon sin and forgive debts. This is what we see David doing. One of the reasons David is leading in this way, is because he is keenly aware of what sins he has committed and how generous the Lord has been with him. When someone sins against you, are you mindful of how much the Lord has forgiven you? It makes holding a grudge much more difficult. Is there someone in your life that you need to forgive?
As a leader – or shepherd, we must tend to the needs of the sheep and keep the wolves out. Whether or not you are a leader in your home, workplace, church or community, it is important to tend to the needs of the “sheep” the Lord has entrusted to you. Caring for others comes first and shutting down quarrels and rebellion is next. What kind of leader are you in the areas the Lord has entrusted to you?
We see Joab continue to try and solve problems with anger, brute force and vengeance. This only results in more trouble. Joab was rebelling against David’s wishes and causing more destruction. Interesting what lengths Joab went to in order to chase others who had rebelled against David. He was a rebel chasing rebels. We can often become hypocrites when we are going after someone for a wrongdoing, when we ourselves are also guilty of wrongdoing. God has showed us through His son, Jesus how to treat and love others even when they sin against us. The question is, will we listen and obey or chose to take matters into our own hands and make things worse?