March 27, 2024

One of King David's sons, Amnon, fell in love with his half-sister, Tamar, who was Absolom's full biological sister. Amnon was heartsick over her. Jonadab, his cousin and friend, gave him the idea of pretending to be sick, and when David came to see him, he asked him to send Tamar to cook for him and feed him. David allowed it. Tamar did as he asked, but when she went to help him eat, he grabbed her and violated her. In addition, he became disgusted with her and sent her away. She lived in shame for the rest of her life. Of course, Absolom became angry with what Amnon did to his sister but waited until sheep shearing time, two years later, to seek revenge! Imagine that kind of anger boiling over for two years! Absolom asked the king to join the sheep shearing, but he didn't want to go. He allowed all his sons to go with him, including Amnon. That's when Absolom ordered one of his servants to get Amnon drunk and then kill him. He did as he was told, and all the other brothers fled. David got word that all his sons were killed, and he cried out in despair. However, he received more accurate news that it was only Amnon. Absolom fled to Geshur and was there for three years.

Absolom was right! Amnon deserved what he got, but I don't understand why he waited two years. Amnon ruined Tamar's life, and she had to live with what he did to her. 

First, we don't need friends like Jonadab, who encouraged terrible behavior. Jonadab was as guilty as Amnon! Second, we shouldn't act in a way that would displease God and harm others. 

And the soul of king David longed to go forth unto Absalom: for he was comforted concerning Amnon, seeing he was dead. 2 Samuel 13:39