The Abuse Of Authority

If we are not careful, power can go to our heads and we can abuse our authority.   #daybydaylw   Interested in learning more about becoming a devoted follower of Christ? Go to follow.lifeword.org!   ~~~   Power displayed in the text—“SENT” Now I want you to know that the idea of the power and authority in this text is not something I am making up, but is squarely in the text. Notice with me the recurring phrase, “David sent.” 1, 3, 4, 6a, 6b, 8 (go down), 14, 27———7 times David is sending. He is sending messengers, sending a message, sending people back and forth and they do so without batting an eye. They don’t ask questions, they just respond. They are robotic in that way. All except one person, which we will get to. Notice the power at David’s disposal. He directs armies, he directs servants, he sends messages and messengers, all from his throne. “Nearly all men can handle adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power.” Abraham Lincoln We see David being tested here. And it is not looking too bright. Why is that? Because David’s previous victories and power seem to have gone to his head. Perhaps he thinks he has earned this reward, or is deserving of it for some reason. The reality is that this is abuse of authority and it is sin. Beware in your own life of the abuse of authority.