Title
When Crowns Turn To Shame
Scripture
Absalom rode on a mule. The mule went under the thick boughs of a great terebinth tree, and his head caught in the terebinth; so he was left hanging between heaven and earth. And the mule
(2 Samuel 18:9)
Devotional
Absalom's greatest natural asset was his hair. "In all Israel there was no one who was praised as much as Absalom for his good looks. From the sole of his foot to the crown of his head there was no blemish in him."[1] The very thing that honored Absalom brought his downfall. His pride brought shame and death. This is more than often the case in life; that which is our most honored asset is what can bring about our worst demise. Likewise our greatest strengths are often our greatest weaknesses. Whenever we rely on our natural strengths more than the strength of Christ and His word our strength becomes our weakness. Whether it is natural beauty, talent, intelligence or the like, these when placed above faith in Christ will eventually bring about shame and defeat. History has repeatedly demonstrated it and heaven will ultimately prove it.
[1] 2 Samuel 14:25