Respectful Control!

One of the things that has for a long time amazed me about King David, was his sense of self-control. Though Saul continued to threaten his life, David was not willing to lift his hand against "the LORD'S anointed" (i.e. 1 Samuel 24:4-7; 26:9-12) even when provided the opportunity. This was something David LEFT IN THE HANDS OF GOD. ( 1 Samuel 26:10) After David became King -- at the time of Absalom's attempt to take over the kingdom -- when Shimei cursed David on his departure from Jerusalem ( 2 Samuel 16:5-14), he did not give permission to have him killed. David again was willing to LEAVE THINGS IN THE HANDS OF GOD. ( 2 Samuel 16:12) Though David could have rightfully acted in self-defense in the case of Saul and then in his position as King could have ordered Shimei to have been struck down for
insulting and pelting him with stones, we see a marvelous example of self-control rather than retaliation. David respectfully acknowledged Saul as God's anointed even though God had rejected Saul as king. ( 1 Samuel 15:28) Also, when David returned to Jerusalem after Absalom's death, he pardoned his enemies, including Shimei. ( 2 Samuel 19:16-23)

Paul is another example of respectful self-control. The day after his arrest in Jerusalem -- when provided an opportunity to speak to the Jewish council in Jerusalem -- we read. . .

"(1) And looking intently at the council, Paul said, 'Brothers, I have lived my life before God in all good conscience up to this day.' (2) And the high priest Ananias commanded those who stood by him to strike him on the mouth. (3) Then Paul said to him, 'GOD IS GOING TO STRIKE YOU, YOU WHITEWASHED WALL! Are you sitting to JUDGE ME ACCORDING TO THE LAW, and YET CONTRARY TO THE LAW YOU ORDER ME TO BE STRUCK?' (4) Those who stood by said, 'Would you revile God's high priest?' (5) And Paul said, 'I DID NOT KNOW,
BROTHERS, THAT HE WAS THE HIGH PRIEST, FOR IT IS WRITTEN, 'YOU SHALL NOT SPEAK EVIL OF A RULER OF YOUR PEOPLE.' '" ( Acts 23:1-5 ESV)

Even though Paul noted the high priest had acted "contrary to the law", he was apologetic for having spoken against him because this was a ruler of the people and the law declared such was not to be done; it was not right for Paul to do the same. However, even when Paul spoke up he had expressed for any ACTION TO BE THAT OF GOD'S.

All of us can probably honestly admit such self-control is not always easy. Sometimes it is not an easy concept to grasp (especially when young), but we should also bear in mind that respect is not necessarily given because it is merited, but because of the position held. Being disrespectful usually accomplishes nothing. However, respectful self-control can be a powerful witness of our trust in God to deal with others for the unkindness or injustice we might have received at their hand. Such is even the example our Lord provided. ( 1 Peter 2:23) The respect and self-control our life displays could actually become the means of drawing others to consider God's Will for their own life. May we continue to reflect on the example of David, of Paul, and most assuredly that of our Lord.

Have a great day RESPECTFULLY LETTING GOD WORK OUT HIS WILL!
Carl

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