Text: 1 Kings 2:36-46
Memory Verse: “For it shall be, on the day you go out and cross the Brook Kidron, know for certain you shall surely die; your blood shall be on your own head” (1 Kings 2:37).
Shimei abused and cursed King David while the king was escaping from the rebellion of Absalom, but at the end of the rebellion, he came to plead for forgiveness. Contrary to the counsel of Joab and other soldiers, David
allowed Shimei to live, swearing to him that he would not kill him. King David, however, passed the judgement on to his son, Solomon, who gave Shimei life on one condition; he must abide in Jerusalem. Shimei went to Gath,
flouting this condition and was killed. Jude enjoins us to live within the boundary of God’s love where grace abides
and abounds “staying right at the centre of God’s love, keeping your arms open and outstretched, ready for the mercy of our Master, Jesus Christ. This is the unending life, the real life!” (Jude 21 MSG).
God has committed all judgement to His son, Jesus Christ (John 5:22). Although the sinner is under condemnation of death, we live by the grace of God through Jesus Christ. Grace operates within a boundary. It requires us to
run away from sin (Titus 2:11). Like Shimei, many pursue wealth, power and relevance to Gath, the enemy’s territory and away from Jerusalem, the house of God.
Do business, marry and maintain friends within “Jerusalem”; in this context Jerusalem means Christ, the Christian fold, assembly of the believers. Do not allow anything to draw you to Gath which might be the world, company of the unbelievers etc. It is the gateway to death and destruction.
Prayer Points:
1. Lord, help me never to frustrate Your grace upon my life.
2. Lord, keep me away from the enemy’s camp. Help me to remain in Your plans.