NIV Once-A-Day Bible Men And Women Of The Bible DevotionalSample

THE GIFT OF MERCY God mercifully allowed Abiathar to avoid certain death twice during his lifetime. The first time, he escaped with nothing but the ephod — ​a special robe identifying him as a priest — ​on his back. A vengeful King Saul had all the priests and their families in the city of Nob killed for helping David, but David welcomed Abiathar into his protection. David trusted Abiathar for many years. But instead of a lifetime of gratefulness to God and loyalty to David, Abiathar eventually conspired against David and Solomon, God’s choice for the next king. This time Solomon showed Abiathar tremendous mercy, and he lost only his priestly position as punishment for his disloyalty. Many times throughout our lives we are given second chances and experience great mercy. Perhaps you have been given another chance in a damaged relationship or an important opportunity you thought you’d wasted. While some people would call it good luck, we know it to be a gift from the merciful hand of God. Like Abiathar, we may neglect to express our gratefulness to God and to others for their graciousness. Make it a point this week to reflect on the “second chances” you have received recently and express your thanks for them. PRAYER Father God, thank you for . . . READ Abiathar’s story is found in 1 Samuel 22:6 — ​23:13 and 1 Kings 1:1 — ​2:27.