The Vicious Circle of Vengeance

2 Samuel 1-4

It seems as though so many are trying to impress David by avenging his enemies. David really had a soft heart and remembered people for who they were and even trusted that they had changed when they said.
It seems David was so misunderstood. His friends felt like they were helping him when they took part in killing Saul, Saul's family, or his men. Joab killed Abner thinking he was doing him a favor. And to try and gain favor with David, two of Saul's sons kill their oldest brother.
It seems that when we get our minds focused on vengeance and vindication, our judgment becomes skewed, and we feel what we're doing "wrong" to make vengeance come about is justified.
Abba, please help the root of bitterness to never take root in my soul. To never let the attitude of vengeance for me or my family to take hold of my mind. It seems when I or anyone is guilty of this is only becomes a vicious circle that never ends.

Pro 19:22
The desire of a man [is] his kindness: and a poor man [is] better than a liar.

I love this verse. It reminds me to always be kind--that's what draws people to you, not sarcastic cutting remarks.

Forgiveness & Slothfulness

A variety of Psalms


130:3
If thou, LORD, shouldest mark iniquities, O Lord, who shall stand?
130:4
But [there is] forgiveness with thee, that thou mayest be feared.

As I read verse 4, I found it kind of odd that it talks about forgiveness...that thou mayest be feared. That usually doesn't seem to go hand in hand, but the more I thought about it. It's true. Your power of judgment is great, Lord, but an even greater power is that You can forgive. You have the authority to forgive. More so, when I understand Your forgiveness that makes me want to please You more. It's such a precious characteristic about you, I don't want to take it for granted. Now as I am typing that, conviction hits my heart. I do take it for granted, Lord. I am guilty of not pleasing you again and again. Help Your forgiveness to create a healthy fear daily for You.

I am going back to daily reading my proverbs again. I have missed the good meat of them, and I really need to have verse to take to heart all day. Such good medicine those proverbs are.
Chapter 18

Pro 18:9
He also that is slothful in his work is brother to him that is a great waster.

This is a good one for me. I officially deleted my forum links on my favorites so I cannot "waste" time on them anymore at work. Yes, they can be used for good, but I tended to use them to waste time too often. Help me, Lord to be more profitable with my time today.