David Forgives Absalom

II Samuel 14:25–33
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No one in all Israel was as handsome and well-built as Absalom (v. 25). His hair was thick and heavy which he only cut once a year (v. 26). He had three sons and a daughter named Tamar who was very beautiful (v. 27). He came back and lived in Jerusalem for two years but didn’t see his father (v. 28). He wanted Joab to talk to his father for him, so one day he invited him to come over, but Joab refused to come (v. 29). Absalom contacted him the second time, but Joab still refused.

Finally, Absalom told his servants that Joab’s barley field was right next to his and he ordered them to set it on fire, which they did (v. 30). Immediately Joab went to Absalom’s house and demanded to know why he had ordered his servants to set his barley field in fire (v. 31). Absalom told Joab it was because he had refused to come when he sent for him. He told Joab he wanted him to ask his father why he wanted him to come back from Geshur when he was better off there (v. 32). He said, “I want to see my father now! If there is any guilt in me, let him kill me.” So, Joab went to David and told him what Absalom said. Then David called for Absalom, who came to the king and bowed to the ground and his father kissed him (v. 33).

Application

Holding a grudge is sin. I don’t want to leave this world having ill will toward anyone.