When we are tempted, when we are planning on doing wrong, we should listen. — 2 Samuel 13:12–16
Even after we do wrong we should listen.
Reading this morning of the lives of Amnon and Tamar. Amnon has desired Tamar for some time, his cousin helped him craft an evil plan. He then acts on.
What amazes me is the wisdom, courage, and character of Tamar.
She tries to reason with Amnon.
2 Samuel 13:12–14 (NIV84): Don’t, my brother!” she said to him. “Don’t force me. Such a thing should not be done in Israel! Don’t do this wicked thing. 13 What about me? Where could I get rid of my disgrace? And what about you? You would be like one of the wicked fools in Israel. Please speak to the king; he will not keep me from being married to you.” 14 But he refused to listen to her.
But after his sin, did it really satisfy? Did it give him lasting anything good?
No!
2 Samuel 13:15 (NIV84): Then Amnon hated her with intense hatred. In fact, he hated her more than he had loved her. Amnon said to her, “Get up and get out!”
Again Tamar shows incredible wisdom and character:
2 Samuel 13:16 (NIV84): No!” she said to him. “Sending me away would be a greater wrong than what you have already done to me.”
But he refused to listen to her.
What destruction and so much unnecessary harm and pain.
I hear God’s voice in Tamar calling Amnon to consider and to do what is right, even after doing evil.
But as we see at the end of verse 16: “But he refused to listen to her.”
Father help me to listen, especially when I am tempted. Help me to consider and not shut my ears and heart to you and the truth.
