Is it God Honoring?
For Women by Women
Submitted by Tara Black
April 19, 2024
2Sa 13:3 But Amnon had a friend, whose name was Jonadab, the son of Shimeah David's brother: and Jonadab was a very subtil man.
Recently, I was asked to consider speaking to a group of women for a Mother-Daughter banquet in May. Although I was initially quite excited about the opportunity, I found myself hesitant to accept without first seeking the Lord’s will.
This reminded me of a message I heard a while ago that dealt with this very thing. Fortunately, I am married to the man who preached it. After reading his notes, I was more comfortable moving forward and accepting the meeting. I hope that when you face your next decision, you will remember this wisdom and allow it to help you as well.
In 2 Samuel 13 it tells the story of Amnon, King David’s son, Tamar, King David’s daughter, and Amnon’s friend, Jonadab. First, Amnon is struggling with the decision to do something unthinkable to his sister, and his “good friend” notices his struggle. Secondly, Jonadab had a reputation for being “subtil,” a characteristic that the devil has been described as having as well. People knew what Jonadab was like.
One might ask, why go to a person like this if you’re struggling with making a big decision? My opinion? Amnon wanted someone to agree, not tell him what he shouldn’t do.
Unfortunately, I have done this myself. Nobody wants to be told they shouldn’t do what they want. So, we find out that Jonadab gave a plan for Amnon to do what he wanted, and the whole family ended up paying a price. Amnon did not do that which was God-honoring.
Today many decisions are made too quickly. Knowing how to make decisions well, and keep them God-honoring, is essential in our daily walk.
Here are a few tips that can help us:
Does it make you a better Christian or Sinner? Amnon chose the way of sin instead of keeping it God-honoring.
Is it done in the light? If you feel you must do it where no one can see, take a second look to see if it's God-honoring.
Does it go against God’s Word? Amnon had the Old Testament. Plus, his conscience should have been enough to keep him from doing what he did. 2 Samuel 13:2 says, “…and Amnon thought it hard for him to do any thing to her.”
Today, we have the completed Word of God and the Holy Spirit to guide us. Make sure you are listening to them and not a “subtil” friend.
Today as you go through your day-to-day duties, remember that there is always time to make the right decision and not rush into a wrong one. God wants to be considered and consulted in ALL your decisions, no matter how big or trivial they seem.
Consider: You have the power to choose wisely and to keep it God-honoring.
Smiley: So my neighbor knocked on my front door at 3 am. 3AM!!! Luckily, I was already up playing the bagpipes.
