Thoughts on Christian Living Book #2 by Dr. W. A. Dillard - HTML preview

MUST GOD BURN YOUR BARLEY FIELD?

“So Absalom dwelt two full years in Jerusalem, and saw not the king's face. Therefore Absalom sent for Joab, to have sent him to the king; but he would not come to him: and when he sent again the second time, he would not come. Therefore he said unto his servants, See, Joab's field is near mine, and he hath barley there; go and set it on fire. And Absalom's servants set the field on fire.” 2 Samuel 14:28-30

From the pages of antiquity comes a most interesting story to speak powerfully to all who read it. It is the story of David's incomplete forgiveness of his son Absalom who had been banished from Judah. The story is recorded in 2 Samuel 14.

As the story unfolds, David permitted Absalom to return to Judah, but he was to remain in his own house, and not see the king. This state of affairs continued for two whole years. Determined to have the matter finally resolved, Absalom sent for David’s top military minister, Joab, to come to him to receive a message for the king. Joab refused to respond, even the second time. It was then that Absalom had his servants to set Joab’s barley fields on fire. Needless to say, Joab came running, demanding to know why this was done. Moreover, he then went on to do Absalom’s bidding. What a shame he had to lose his barley fields to do what he went on to do anyway!

It seems there may be an uncomfortable application here. How many times have believers heard the call of God to repent, to do his bidding, to accomplish some good things. Then they refuse though in certain conviction that they are doing wrong. Later, catastrophe strikes. It may be illness, death of a loved one, financial loss or some other hurtful things. Then they remember their rebellion, and turn to God in repentance, and in submission to do as He would have them to do.

But, does God actually chastise his children? Only an emphatic “Yes” can be the answer to that question in view of the very plain statements of Hebrews 12:5-11. In fact, if one has never received chastisement from the Lord, he should consider his spiritual standing, as not being a part of New Testament relationship with Him. Thank God for the chastisement. The chastisement of God cannot be said to be joyful at the moment, but it does have eternal benefit that will bring true happiness and deep appreciation that it was exercised. Indeed, it is for good alone that it is done, and believers would be so much poorer without it. However, it is commonly true, that believers will incur enough of that without asking for it.

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