Sermon Central
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A Sheltering Tree Series
Contributed by Doug Johnston on Jan 2, 2002 (message contributor)
Summary: God’s face in crisis often is seen in the face of friends He sends to help us, or in our face as He directs us to help others.
2 Samuel 15; 17; 19
When the chips are down, it’s amazing how god sends us a sheltering tree.
I. "I’m With You” (15:18-21)
Ittai the Gittite
A few will remain and be counted on no matter what
II. “I’ll Do Whatever You Wish” (15:23-28)
Zadok and Abiathar the Priests
They were willing to give up personal comforts and safety to investigate the enemy
III. “I’ll Find Out What You Need to Know” (15:32-34)
Hushai
He was finding a way to help restore David to the throne
IV. “Here’s a Place to Stay and Some Food” (17:27-29)
Shobi, Machir, Barzillai
They knew David was tired, hungry, and thirsty. They didn’t need to be told what to do; they provided the practical stuff (James 2:15-16).
V. “You Have to Face the Facts” (19:8)
Joab
David needed to be snapped out of his own personal grief. Joab came in to wake him up and tell him it was time to get busy with life.
In this life, friends:
-Are essential, not optional
-Must be cultivated, they don’t happen automatically
-Are not neutral, they impact our lives
-Come in varying degrees, some play more significant roles.
Who can you rely on?
