Theme: AVOIDING ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR
Text: “And she answered him, Nay, my brother, do not force me; for no such thing ought to be done in Israel: do not thou this folly.” – 2 Samuel 13:12
Comment: Those were the words of Tamar, Amnon’s half sister just before she was defiled by him. Amnon lacked self discipline. He had lust for his half-sister and, following the ungodly counsel given to him by his friend Jonadab, had carnal knowledge of her by force. This is an act of rape which is a grievous sin in the sight of God and humanity. The singular act made Absalom, Tamar’s brother to commit murder by killing Amnon. If Amnon had had a godly friend, he would have advised him against such an ungodly act that would have saved him from death and also, avoided the shame and reproach that came upon Tamar. Today in the world there are lots of characters like Amnon who go about defiling innocent girls and ladies without prick of conscience. Except they repent thoroughly they will surely be punished by God. King Solomon stated: “As righteousness tendeth to life: so he that pursueth evil pursueth it to his own death. Though hand join in hand, the wicked shall not be unpunished; but the seed of the righteous shall be delivered.” (Proverbs 11:19, 21; see also Job 4:8) Those who are wise will avoid bad company and bad advice for their own good. King Solomon says, “Forsake the foolish, and live; and go in the way of understanding.” “If thou be wise, thou shalt be wise for thyself: but if thou scornest, thou alone shalt bear it.” – Proverbs 9:6, 12.