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From: The Message/Remix: Solo, An Uncommon Devotional Day 31

Honouring and Valuing Others

Read
Hold this book in your hands.  As you read the passage, 1 Samuel 26:7-11, pace the room or walk outside.  As you do, consider the speed at which you are reading.  Take your time and find a rhythm of reading that matches your pace.  (For example, if you are reading fast, walk fast.)

Here is a link to that reading in an online bible:
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Samuel+26%3A7-11&version=NRSV

Think
Earlier in 1 Samuel, God anointed David to be the future king of Israel, even though Saul was still on the throne.  This man, overcome with cruelty, jealousy, evil, and insecurity, then repeatedly attempted to take David’s life.  For many years, David hid from Saul’s army.

One night, David and Abishai sneak into Saul’s camp, and there Abishai notices the perfect opportunity to kill Saul.  But David refuses.  David is so certain of God’s sovereignty that he refuses to kill Saul.

We all have enemies, big or small, and desire for them to come to ruin.  Yet ponder the interchange between Saul and David in verses 21-24.

Pray
Think of the people you consider your enemies.  Pray for them and ask God to help you honour them, even though doing so may seem impossible.

Live
Seek out intentional opportunities to honour those who dishonour you and to value the lives of those who do not value you.

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