David’s men routed Absalom’s troops in a conflict for the rule over Israel. 20,000 men lost their lives in the struggle. Absalom himself came to a gruesome end when he was caught by his hair hanging in a tree and thrust through with Joab’s javelin.

Power struggles rooted in ambition have their cost. Promotion comes from God.

PRAYER:  Father, our lives and futures are in Your mighty hands. We trust our destiny to Your will and provision.

READING: 2 Sam. 18,19