A PRINCE UP TO SNUFF

•    Prince Philip showed he worked his way up, not stuffy

ABSALOM - ATTRACTIVE AND ARROGANT

•    big head: exceptional hair, drove chariot with attendants
•    flattering & manipulative: stole people’s hearts, consummate politicking
•    deceptive: feigned passion for justice though murdered sister’s rapist
•    self-exalting not God-honouring: worship an excuse for selfish designs
•    moderns reject God’s glory for images reflecting us

DAVID’S DEFERENCE AND DEFENCE

•    humility: head covered, walking barefoot
•    freeing & releasing, not coercing: allows Ittai easy out
•    absorptive, respectful, trusting God to judge: endures Shimei’s abuse
•    God-honouring not God-manipulating: doesn’t treat ark like magic charm
•    Paul: Christ exalted whether by my life or death

THOUGH HE SLAY ME, I WILL TRUST HIM

•    challenges for Roy Rogers’ / Dale Evans’ adopted son
•    tragedy refines; peace at centre of the hard way