II Samuel 13:23-14:33

“The word of my lord the king will set me at rest” (v17). After Absalom took revenge on Amnon (for raping Tamar), his father David exiled him for 3 years. During that time, King David neither forgave Absalom nor punished him.  Joab sent a wise woman to incite David to reconcile with Absalom, challenging David to “discern good and evil.” (v14:17).  In response, David brought Absalom home but still isolated him for two years (v28). David’s inability to forgive or deal with Absalom deepened the chasm in the family. 

Sin and all the conflicts it produces must be faced, not ignored. God calls us to act with wisdom and courage in order to set things right.