S) "8 Moreover, Hushai said, 'You know your father and his men, that they are mighty men and they are fierce, like a bear robbed of her cubs in the field. And your father is an expert in warfare, and will not spend the night with the people. 9 Behold, he has now hidden himself in one of the caves or in another place; and it will be when he falls on them at the first attack, that whoever hears it will say, "There has been a slaughter among the people who follow Absalom." 10 And even the one who is valiant, whose heart is like the heart of a lion, will completely lose heart; for all Israel knows that your father is a mighty man and those who are with him are valiant men.'"
2 Samuel 17:8-10 (NASB)
O) So, in yesterday's entry, we saw how David prayed so that the advice of Ahithophel would be fruitless. Here, we see how David's spy, Hushai, is able to thwart the advice given to David's son, by planting new advice. God takes care of the rest (see v.14). A lot of this plan of misdirection, though, relies heavily on David's reputation. Although Hushai gives some misleading information about David being apart from his men, it is mixed with a lot of truth. David was, indeed, a very good battle strategist and general. He did, in fact, have Mighty Men with him. All of Israel was well acquainted with David's military exploits.
A) This verse is an excellent example of the power of a good reputation. I don't think it should be my goal to pray and seek a good reputation, just for the sake of looking good. In fact, that would be quite dangerous for me, both because of my own struggle with arrogance and pride, but also because of what Jesus said about being careful when everyone loves you (see Luke 6:26). My heart in it, then, is the key. My reputation is just one more thing, then, that God might use for His benefit and glory. I need to behave in such a way, that my reputation is usable by the LORD.
P) Father, I want You to be able to use me in every way You will. Help me bear in mind, daily, that my actions will affect my reputation, and that will affect how You can use my reputation. I want to be credible, for Your sake. I want people to know I'm compassionate, for Your glory. I want people to know I am merciful, for Your praise. Help me walk according to these desires, so that You can bring them to pass. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.
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