SUNDAY 11 September, 2016
A Rebel’s End
So the woman said to Joab, “Watch, his head will be thrown to you over the wall.” Then the woman in her wisdom went to all the people. And they cut off the head of Sheba the son of Bichri, and threw it out to Joab. Then he blew a trumpet, and they withdrew from the city, every man to his tent. So Joab returned to the king at Jerusalem. - 2 Samuel 20:21-22
The woman in her wisdom unified the people and a city wide search for Sheba began. They were all motivated by their need for survival. It was between the death of one or the death of all. Sheba thought he was safe behind the strong walls; but he was soon discovered and beheaded––his head was thrown out to Joab. Sheba’s rebellion was the cause of his death.
Joab sounded the trumpet of victory and withdrew his army from the city. Everyone went peacefully home to their tents. Joab, with his mission accomplished, would enter back into Jerusalem. King David and his people where no longer in danger of another uprising; there was peace.
A rebellious person will always cause division. They have to be dealt with or they will cause even more havoc. God will deal with the rebels among His chosen people. Because of their sin, He will separate them; they will not be allowed to enter the land of Israel:
I will purge the rebels from among you, and those who transgress against Me; I will bring them out of the country where they dwell, but they shall not enter the land of Israel… (Ezekiel 20:38).
Separate rebellious persons from among you, to restore unity and peace in your homes––families, place of business or in the church. If their sin is confronted, then they will have the opportunity to repent.
Nobody has ever been convicted of his sinfulness until he has been confronted with the living Lord in his holiness.
~Rolfe Barnard~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit Somebodylovesyouradio.org!
