I have hidden Thy word in my heart.
(Picture by Lisa R)

2 Samuel 14. “Then Joab fell to the ground on his face and bowed himself, and thanked the king. And Joab said, ‘Today your servant knows that I have found favor in your sight, my lord, O king, in that the king has fulfilled the request of his servant.’ So Joab arose and went to Geshur, and brought Absalom to Jerusalem. And the king said, ‘Let him return to his own house, but do not let him see my face.’ So Absalom returned to his own house, but did not see the king’s face” (Verses 22-24). Here is a truth God always forgives (if we repent). Here is another truth, sin always has a side effect. David brought his son home, but he wasn’t allowed to see the king. That seems worse somehow. being so close yet so far. But that was the penalty for Absalom’s actions. There are times that forgiveness is giving, but we still have to face the penalty of our actions. It doesn’t mean God doesn’t love us, nor does it mean we are not forgiving. It simply means we must take responsibility for our actions. Absalom made a bad choice, but his father still loves him. Still wants to know he is safe, but he still makes Absalom live the penalty for his actions. Because it is how he will learn, same for us.