Long Memories

“Behold, there is with you Shimei . . . Do not let him go unpunished, for you are a wise man; and you will know what you ought to do to him.” 1 Kings 2:8-9 NASB

When his son, Absalom, declared himself to be king, David was forced to flee for his life. Seeking to escape, he was met by a man from Saul’s family, named Shimei.

Taking advantage of David’s vulnerability, Shimei cursed David “continually” and threw stones at him and all who were with him. David’s lieutenant, Abishai, wanted to silence Shimei, but David ordered that nothing be done. Left alone, Shimei continued to curse, cast stones, and throw dust (2 Samuel 15:5-14).

David might have not been willing to take action that day, but he never forgot. In fact, on his death bed, David still vividly remembered what Shimei had done. So deeply was this memory embedded in David’s mind that his last words were not about his kingdom, his achievements, his family, or God’s blessings. Rather, they were instruction to his son about revenging the taunts of Shimei.

Here, we see how deeply we can be wounded by the things that people say and do. These words and deeds can be etched into our memories, and hard to forget!

Today, remember that you have choices about what you do and say. In one way or another, your words and actions will impact others. You might encourage (or discourage) someone. Heal or wound.

Knowing this reality, surrender your life to the control of the Spirit. Fill your mind with God’s Word. Commit your way to Him. Ask Him to help you use every opportunity to demonstrate His love and the fruit of the Spirit. And point people to the Kingdom of God.

And, if you have been wounded by what others have said, ask God to help you forgive them, to let Him heal your heart.

Prayer: Father, give me a sensitivity to the impact of my life on others. Direct and guide me by Your Spirit. I dedicate my life to You. Use me to impact lives for Your Kingdom. In Jesus’ name. Amen.