MONDAY 4 April, 2016
The Art of Friendly Persuasion
But the king said to Absalom, “No, my son, let us not all go now, lest we be a burden to you.” Then he urged him, but he would not go; and he blessed him. Then Absalom said, “If not, please let my brother Amnon go with us.” And the king said to him, “Why should he go with you?” But Absalom urged him; so he let Amnon and all the king’s sons go with him. - 2 Samuel 13:25-27
David declined his son’s invitation, but notice, Amnon is now mentioned by name. Absalom requests Amnon to also join the rest of the king’s sons in the festivities. David questioned Absalom’s motives for asking Amnon to go, but Absalom’s words were persuasive enough to get his way. He must have put any of his father’s concerns to rest. Absalom’s real intentions still remained hidden.
Perhaps, David thought everything was all right between the two brothers. Surely they had gone forward with their lives and had put the past behind them. Besides, all the brothers would be together, it wasn’t like Absalom was singling Amnon out to be alone with him?
It is important to realize that some people have a natural ability with words; they are extremely good at manipulating others. They are able to persuade others to do exactly what they want while hiding their real intentions. The Bible tells us that: Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit (Proverbs 18:21).
The Apostle Paul was well-educated and he spoke with great eloquence. Before the Lord called him into ministry, Saul’s words breathed out threats and murder towards Christians (Acts 9:1). Through God’s divine intervention his life and name was changed. Paul was used by God to spread the Gospel (Acts 9:15). With his words He was able to persuade others that Jesus was the Christ. He communicated God’s Word, which gave eternal life to all those who believed.
God is a communicating being.
~Jonathan Edwards~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit Somebodylovesyouradio.org!
