2 Samuel 18:5 “And the king gave this command to Joan, Abishai, and Ittai: ‘For my sake, deal gently with young Absalom.’”
David was foolish in allowing his heart to overcome what he knew was right. Absalom had declared himself David’s enemy and as such, the enemy of all of David’s loyal men. In asking them to deal gently with their shared enemy, David devalued his men. Was it sad that David’s own son was doing this? Yes. Did that make it ok for him to place his men in harm’s way and then ask them not to protect themselves fully? No. Sometimes it is necessary to do what is hardest. Sometimes the most painful route is the best, the only right way. It is often said we must always follow our hearts. Not so. The heart can be the most deceiving. It is often the most misdirected. It will often be blind to truth. Always seek my leading. Seek the advice of those you trust. And do not act out of emotion – from the heart – without thought and prayer.
Amanuensis 