RESIST RAGE AND RESENTMENT –

Even though David tried to be understanding, Ahithophel’s wicked deed was not easy to put out of his mind; it burned like a hot iron in David’s soul and he knew that if he left it there it could easily become a raging fire. David realized that if he allowed this to happen, it could easily lead to doing something out of anger, which would foster resentment, which could lead to revenge, that would make him no better than Ahithophel. David wanted to be what God made him, not what others wanted him to be or would make out of him if he gave into such temptation.

“Don’t become infuriated because bad people succeed, and don’t become envious of those who get ahead by cheating; they’ll end up like withering leaves on a tree. Trust completely in the LORD Eternal for everything; live the way you should; be content with what the LORD Eternal has given you and remain loyal to Him; yes, get excited about His blessings, and He will see to it that you get what you really want. If you let the LORD Eternal handle what irks you, the following will happen: He will make your honest way of living beam like a lighthouse, and your purpose in life shine like the sun at noon. So be patient, wait for the LORD Eternal to act; don’t become frustrated because people who shouldn’t prosper, do so by scheming and committing fraud. Let go of your anger, get rid of your frustration; it will only end up hurting you. I tell you, such evil minded people end up losing everything, but those who rely on the LORD Eternal have everything to gain. Give it some time, and you’ll see these people with evil hearts fade from the scene; you’ll ask about them but nobody knows where they’re at. But those who have remained humble will prosper and enjoy a good life. ” Psalm 37:1-11

Reflection: Visitors to Egypt still marvel at the pyramids, and stand in awe as to how those ancient Egyptians built them. They did not possess huge cranes or motorized moving machinery back then. So archaeologists believe that they used logs as rolling pins and built long ramps which allowed them to transport those huge stones up to the top. This required moving one inch, one yard; one hour, one day; one week, one month, one year, at a time; until the job was completed. Often believers become discouraged when their plans move along at a snail’s pace, while the world and their evil ideas take root overnight and grow like Jack’s bean stalk in the old fairy tale. But David was convinced that it wasn’t how fast the progress, but where the path led and eventually ended. He saw no need to compete with these evil doers. Why get into a race with someone if you know the road they’re on is headed for a cliff? Too often believers become frustrated and disheartened because they see godless sinners getting ahead so easily while they struggle just to catch up. Stick to what God has given you to do and the world will certainly take notice when His favor brings you success.