The story of David’s son Absalom rebelling against him holds an important lesson about responding to mistreatment. When David fled Jerusalem, a man named Shimei cursed and threw stones at him. David’s men wanted to retaliate, but David said no.
He recognized that though Shimei acted wrongly, God had allowed this adversity as discipline for David’s own prior sins. David had broken God’s heart through adultery and murder. The prophet warned David that the sword would never depart from his house. Now David saw God’s word coming to pass through Absalom’s rebellion.
Though Shimei railed against him, David submitted to it as ordained by God to bring repentance. He trusted God would ultimately vindicate him and turn cursing into blessing. David focused on his own walk with God rather than trying to defend himself against enemies.
When people come against us, it’s natural to strike back. But Jesus calls us to turn the other cheek and not retaliate against evil with evil. Leaving room for God’s justice allows Him to fight our battles. He knows how to humble opponents and work redemption far beyond what we could imagine.
Surrendering to unfair treatment seems weak but actually displays great spiritual strength. It shows we serve a mighty God who will uphold the righteous. He sees when others misrepresent or slander us. When we let go of anger and refuse vengeance, it heaps burning coals on the heads of our enemies.
The next time someone aims to hurt you, remember David’s example. Recognize that God may be orchestrating trials to purify your faith. Keep your eyes fixed on His sovereign purposes. Trust that He can turn curses into blessings for those who belong to Him. Stand firm in the confidence that God has your back and will bring justice in His timing.
In Christ,
Stephen H. Hammond
President
AUTHOR BIO
Stephen H. Hammond, president and founder of Christian Values Investing Inc., established the first “fee-only” Biblical responsible investment advisory firms in 1993 to help Christians align investments with their values and better manage finances from a biblical perspective. He graduated from Georgia Southern University with a finance degree and worked in the Investment Banking industry before joining Merrill Lynch in 1988. Stephen is a published author and speaker, a spirit-filled Christian who traces his faith heritage to preacher ancestors. In 2005, he established the nonprofit Covenant Financial Ministries to teach biblical stewardship principles and money management. Stephen has decades of experience in money management and financial planning. and serves with Kingdom Advisors and the National Association of Christian Financial Consultants. He has appeared on radio and television, spoken at churches, and authored books including Mission Possible: An Investment Guide for Christians and The Successful Life Manager. He married Angela in 1990, and has two adult children.
