Theme: Loss in Victory

Passage: 2 Samuel 18:1–19:8a

The story of the battle between David and Absalom unfolds as follows:

A lopsided victory (18:1–8)

An ignominious death (18:9–18)

A dangerous report (18:19–32)

An inconsolable loss (18:33–9:8a)

Main Idea: “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it” (Prov. 22:6).

Where did David go wrong regarding his family?

He compromised biblical command for personal reasons.

He seemingly played favorites.

He was angered by sin but wouldn’t confront it.

He chose seeming peace over discipline.

While professing the contrary, he acted unloving.

What can we do differently?

Read and heed God’s Word.

Address sin.

Intentionally invest time in your children and grandchildren.

Application Questions:

David’s example here serves as a warning to the loss and regret that come from wrong choices. Looking toward the end of your life, what regrets do you foresee for yourself (or do you have) considering current trajectories you are on? What has this passage challenged you to do to address this?

What areas of your life do you compromise the clear commands of scripture? What action do you need to take this week to deal with this?

How do you profess love in your relationships but act to the contrary? List out the ways or steps you need to take to demonstrate love rather than simply profess it.

Are you in a relationship with someone in which sin is being glossed over for seeming peace? How can you address this sin in a way that honors God?

As a parent or grandparent, in what ways can you intentionally invest time in the children of your life that shows love?