Read through the Bible in 2 Years: Psalm 114, 2 Samuel 13-14

This has to be one of the hardest passages in the whole Bible to read. Human nature at its worst. A man who desires his own sister so much that he rapes her, and then he hates her so much “that the hatred with which he hated her was greater than the love with which he had loved her.” (2 Samuel 13:15 ESV)

Here are some of my thoughts:

• The scriptures don’t jump over the tough stuff. Whether in heroes like David or villains like Amnon, the Bible leaves the closet doors open where others might have hidden skeletons.
• Lust ain’t love. Amnon didn’t actually love Tamar, he lusted after her, and after he had her, he was done with her. Let this be a warning for single women. Don’t let a guy get you into bed, with sweet words of how much he loves you. True love puts others before yourself. Read 1 Corinthians 13.
• Satan is a liar. Satan’s very nature is to lie and deceive. Initially Satan was whispering into Amnon’s ear that he needed Tamar, deserved her, loved her. Then, after taking advantage of her, Satan started whispering new lies. She’s trash. She’s no good for you. What did you ever see in her? We need to be discerning about what voices in our head we’re listening to.

Heavenly Father, You are truth. Every word You say is true. Help me to trust You and listen to Your voice, the voice of true love. I pray that You will protect my children from the schemes of the evil one. Help them to guard their hearts and minds, and to think of others more highly than themselves. For the glory of Your Name I pray. Amen.