April 28
2 Samuel 15:1-17:14
Throughout the centuries, God has been calling us, asking if we will listen to Him, now. As a physician I find myself at an interesting juncture. What does one do when you no longer trust those that supposed to be the sources. Years ago I witnessed the editorial bias surrounding abortion. This is celebrated in my field, and all dissenting voices are marginalized and hidden from any peer reviewed journals. Then came the journals and organizations backing every unproven response to the recent virus, from vaccinating without proof of safety, vaccinating people groups who were not endangered, mandating masks which offer absolutely no protection (by themselves they were not protective, but with the gaps in everyone's unfitted masks that rate of protection was less than 1%), firing anyone who would not comply, etc. So the question is how can you trust those who have proven themselves untrustworthy. I recall the encounter with Samson and Delilah in Judges 16. Multiple times she asks Samson for the secret behind his strength. Each and every time she proves herself untrustworthy, yet, in the end he finally trusts her enough to reveal the truth, and he is captured and blinded as a result.
Separated by 1000 years we have two individuals in today's reading, David and Jesus, both who have proven themselves time and time again to be honorable and credible. Those seeking their downfall have proven themselves as liars who willingly distort the facts to gain or maintain control. Yet, people are fickle. They are easily swayed. David defeated Goliath, led them into one military victory after another, exalted God publicly, brought the Ark of the Covenant back, but we find him running for his life from his son, Absalom, and many of his own leaders in 2 Samuel 15. Jesus, the perfect Son of God, spoke only truth, exemplified beauty and kindness, performed countless miracles, etc. Yet we read during the mockery of a trial in John 18:22-23, "And when He had said these things, one of the officers who stood by struck Jesus with the palm of his hand, saying, “Do You answer the high priest like that?” Jesus answered him, “If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil; but if well, why do you strike Me?”"
Then and now, God is calling us. What are you trusting which is not Him? Is it medical experts, political leaders, media sources, etc? How many times must these sources prove themselves untrustworthy before you realize that they are just not reliable. As a physician I have relied much more on God's Word than the "data". The lies which have become glaringly overt has taught me to be much more discerning, not just regurgitating the latest protocol, guideline, or article. How about you? No matter what you do, are you willing to stop listening to those untrustworthy voices and tune into the King of Kings, and Lord of Lords? He loves us and only desires what is best for us. But in that love He allows free choice for us. We must decide who it is that we will listen to and be guided by.
Messages from Pastor Lloyd Pulley: