2nd Samuel 10:5. “When they told it unto David, he sent to meet them, because the men were greatly ashamed: and the king said, ‘Tarry at Jericho until your beards be grown, and then return.”
SERIOUS INSULT. It happens sometimes – you wonder – Could it have been avoided? And further you ponder – Is there something I did that was wrong? Had I misjudged the matter all along? Why did they say that? What was the reason? Is the action they took reasonable or is it treason? And the questions continue without any real answer – The doubts inside increase eating away like a cancer.
But then comes the time – what should be my response? Should I take this seriously or put it down to chance? Can this have serious effects, will it hinder our life? If I respond in some way will it lead to more strife? Suppose we just wait quietly and make no reply? Will the consequences continue or will the matter quietly die? There are times when I wonder when serious insults are made – Whether to rise to the challenge or just carefully turn away?
I read of the Lord when reviled He reviled not again Often, they insulted Him when in truth He answered them With words of scripture or some carefully planned story That silenced their vain words and brought to God much glory So, it seems to me after considering the source That it is best to let insults lie or else run their course And when all is done and my answer is only my silence There won’t be a fiery blaze, just a reasonable patience.
Insults have come and will probably come again I just want to be careful I give no reason for them And when they are made and for whatever reason they’re past The one making them will know on my Lord the burden I cast By God’s grace I want to keep a spirit that is always sweet And when whatever caused the problem is done and complete I will have been Christ-like in my response to the serious insult Knowing there has been no reason for it so in my reply is no fault.
“Keep me sweet-spirited Father, lest I bring dishonor on Thy name, Thy people, Thy Gospel and Thy servant. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.”