The story in II Samuel of Absalom, King David’s third son, is chock-full of valuable life lessons.
Absalom had some terrific qualities though sadly most of them were external qualities—great looks, a charismatic personality, and beautiful hair to name a few. The book of II Samuel paints a clear picture of this handsome prince, “In all Israel there was not a man so highly praised for his handsome appearance as Absalom. From the top of his head to the sole of his foot there was no blemish in him.” (II Samuel 14:25).
Sounds like the makings of a Hollywood star.
We are told that Absalom’s hair alone weighed 5 pounds (II Samuel 14:26). Fabio ain’t got nothin’ on Absalom! The magnitude of Absalom’s hair is an important fact when we learn about how he died:
“He was riding his mule, and as the mule went under the thick branches of a large oak, Absalom’s head got caught in the tree. He was left hanging in midair, while the mule he was riding kept on going.” (II Samuel 18:9). While Absalom was dangling from the oak tree by his gorgeous mane King David’s military leader, Joab, “took three javelins in his hand and plunged them into Absalom’s heart while Absalom was still alive in the oak tree.” (II Samuel 18:14).
Unlike his father, Absalom was a self-centered man. He was, well—so vain. Although people loved him, he lacked the inner qualities required to become a great leader such as personal integrity, wisdom, and patience. I guess one could say that instead of seeking after the heart of God, he kept his mane-thing the main thing!
In truth, we are all vain to varying degrees. Our sin nature is constantly competing with our God-given nature. In contrast to his son Absalom, King David sought after the heart of God. He made plenty of mistakes in the moments he took his eyes off of God such as his sin against Bathsheba and her husband Uriah. But through his experiences David chose to live for God and not for self.
Even though Absalom plotted against his father to take away the throne, King David was shaken with the news of Absalom’s death, “He went up to the room over the gateway and wept. As he wept he said: “O my son Absalom! My son, my son Absalom! If only I had died instead of you—O Absalom, my son, my son!” (II Samuel 18:33).
King David, no longer in the first season of his life, had gained wisdom and knowledge from his own sins which in turn brought him much success in his latter seasons. His selfless love toward his son is evidence of Kind David’s maturity, character and integrity. David sought hard after the heart of God, the source of his affirmation, his confidence; his everything.
Absalom’s life is a reminder to us that the antidote to vanity (also defined as “empty pride) is humility. Humility (I am learning) can only be found in one place: on our knees; and in one Person-the character and nature of Jesus.
In the final seasons of our lives, when our looks have flittered away, our inner beauty should far outshine the beauty and vanity of youth.
Our true beauty is not hidden from our Father. We have been fearfully and wonderfully made by the One who is to be forever feared and praised. The One whom we find when we seek. The One who cares more about pure hearts and clean hands than tan bodies and long lashes. The One who heals the scars of our past and removes the invisible arrows of shame, regret, heartbreak and betrayal. The One who knows us intricately, beholds us breathlessly, and longs for us desperately. The only One worthy to write a blog about.
Stay the Course…
Sheila
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