Assumptions

The Israelites and the Ammonites had a complex relationship. Although they were relatives, the Ammonites served false gods, and there had been war between them as recently as the reign of King Saul.

But David had developed a positive relationship with the Ammonite king. After this king died, David decided to express his concern by sending some servants to console his son, Hanun. But the Ammonite princes did not recognize his sincerity. Their world was dominated by politics and rivalries, where no one acted out of pure “kindness.” They couldn’t believe David was sincere. As a result, Hanun humiliated David’s servants before sending them home (v. 4).

It can be easy to act just like these men of Ammon-jumping to conclusions, making false assumptions, presuming to understand the motives of others.

Today, learn a lesson from their mistakes. Yes, always remember the importance of prudence-to be “shrewd as serpents,” but also be “innocent as doves” (Matthew 10:16) and pure in heart (Matthew 5:8).

At the same time, don’t “believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God” (1 John 4:1). Seek God for discernment and wisdom in every business deal, every relationship, every project. Remember not to “be bound together with unbelievers; for what partnership have righteousness and lawlessness?” (2 Corinthians 6:14)

Don’t allow your life to be dominated by a poisonous spirit of criticism and judgment. Seek to be a person of grace and mercy. Reach out to others with the love of Jesus. Seek to be His ambassador in every situation.