1 Samuel 30:1-31:13
1 Chronicles 12:20-22
1 Chronicles 10:1-14
1 Chronicles 9:40-44
2 Samuel 4:4
2 Samuel 1:1-27
2 Samuel 1:11-12, "David and his men tore their clothes in sorrow when they heard the news. They mourned and wept and fasted all day for Saul and his son Jonathan, and for the Lord's army and the nation of Israel because they had died by the sword that day."
Has there been a time in your life when you chose to be better instead of bitter?
In today's reading, a lot transpires. Battles are won and lost, Israel's first king and his son die, and David mourns his dearest friend, Jonathan, and his one-time greatest enemy, Saul.
When Saul was anointed to be Israel's first king, he humbly - and almost bashfully - took the throne. But once in power, he allowed jealousy and bitterness against David to rule his heart.
David chose the opposite path. Saul had made his life miserable, causing him to flee and hide out in caves - fearing for his life. But in the end, David didn't celebrate the death of his unhinged successor or the taking of his throne. What was his response? He mourned. Through it all, David allowed himself to become better instead of bitter. How was this possible? His ability to discern the correct response came from his amazing confidence and trust in God's almighty power to work all things for good.
Oftentimes, we face circumstances that don't turn out the way we'd hoped. That's life! How we respond to such situations is a choice. Maybe you've been mistreated in the past or have felt like the walls were pressing in on you from all sides, causing bitterness to swell in your heart. In such moments, remember: God works through all things for our good and His glory. Choose to grow from the experience. Decide to be better, not bitter.
Dear God, Thank You for this reminder for me to become better, not bitter. The next time such a situation arises, help me make the right choice and place my trust in You. Amen.