The Psalmist wrote:
“If an enemy were insulting me, I could endure it; if a foe were rising against me, I could hide. But it is you, a man like myself, my companion, my close friend, with whom I once enjoyed sweet fellowship at the house of God, as we walked about among the worshipers.” (Psa.55.12-14.NIV)
David probably wrote about the betrayal of Ahithophel, the Gilonite, who was originally a close confidant and trusted advisor of king David. David relied on him for wise counsel and insight into difficult decisions. He was the kind of person who had been part of one’s roller coastal life experiences. One person you are absolutely comfortable with while giving him/her all the necessary tools for your destruction. The Bible describes his counsel – “Now in those days the advice Ahithophel gave was like that of one who inquires of God…………(2 Sam. 16:23 NIV). He was wise and insightful. Rely on God not friends.
When Absalom, David’s son plotted against him, and while David was on the run, Ahithophel changed camps. Now David had been told, “Ahithophel is among the conspirators with Absalom.” So David prayed, “Lord, turn Ahithophel’s counsel into foolishness.” (2 Sam.15.31.NIV). And it was so.
Judas Iscariot was a close ally with Jesus. He was there by His side throughout His earthly ministry. He was an insider. This means, only insiders can sell you out for whatever reason/s.
Why did Ahithophel betray David? Why did Joseph’s brothers planned his downfall? Why did Judas sold Jesus out? Why did Hamas get under the King’s skin to sign the death decree against his own wife, Esther? Why does a spouse succeed in planning the downfall of the other? Why will a close and trusted friend stab you in the back?
Have you ever known someone like Ahithophel? Someone with polished words and a wicked heart? A friend who pretend to give you a shoulder to lean on but planning to take you down? Beware of such people.
Hezekiah opened all his treasury to his visitors. He opened his heart to Israel’s future enemies. The prophet asked, “What did they see in your palace?” “They saw everything in my palace,” Hezekiah said. “There is nothing among my treasures that I did not show them.” (2 ki.20.15.NIV)
Be discrete.
THE WORD: “Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.” (Psa.55.22.NIV)
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