Absalom comes for the Throne

Absalom began to plot against his father David by manipulating the people. Anytime someone would come to visit the king, he would meet them first and speak sweet-sounding lies to them. He built himself up in the eyes of the people while tearing his father down. Four years later his plans would succeed. He forced his father to flee by threatening war within the city. David was once again forced into the wilderness, but this time half the city went with him.

In yesterday’s episode, we heard how Joab convinced David to allow Absalom to return to Israel. David eventually allowed his banished son to return but didn’t welcome him with open arms, instead Absalom lived for two years without speaking to his father. During that time his anger and bitterness only grew stronger. When David finally reconnected with his son, the damage was done, and evil filled Absalom’s heart. He was determined to kill his father and take the throne. Today we’ll learn how he overthrows king David and sends his father into exile in the wilderness. David will once again taste the bitterness of separation from his home and the fear of being hunted by another man. But even as he flees for his life, God will remain faithful to him and comfort him in his loneliness and sorrow.