Bite Thy Tongue

16 But as the Ark of the Lord entered the City of David, Michal, the daughter of Saul, looked down from her window. When she saw King David leaping and dancing, before the Lord, she was filled with contempt for him.... 20 When David returned home to bless his own family, Michal, the daughter of Saul came out to meet him. She said in disgust, "How distinguished the king of Israel looked today, shamelessly exposing himself to the servant girls like any vulgar person might do!" 21 David retorted to Michal, "I was dancing before the Lord, who chose me above your father and all his family! He appointed me as the leader of Israel, the people of the Lord, so I celebrate before the Lord. 22 Yes, and I am willing to look even more foolish than this, to be humiliated in my own eyes! But those servant girls you mentioned will indeed think I am distinguished!" 2 Samuel 6:16, 20-22

Michal mirrors our own tendencies. How quickly we allow bitterness to set in when life throws unexpected punches. But often, bitterness will only make bad situations worse. On the other hand, willing to succumb to God allows Him the opportunity to bring good out of difficult situations.

I am reminded of many, many times where I, over the years, have ignored my husband (or brothers, or mother, or father, or friends, etc) - or even rudely blasted them for their silliness. I am praying daily for more patience... Grant it, some of the things they were doing weren't really of a spiritual nature, but we are to do all things unto the Lord. So, maybe the next time I think Cory is being exceedingly silly, I'll bite my tongue and remember that. Maybe God blessed him and he is excited about it. Either way, I don't want my fate to become that of Michal - 23 So, Michal, daughter of Saul, remained childless throughout her entire life. 2 Samuel 6:23

31a"God's way is perfect." (Even when you see a situation that makes someone appear foolish) 31b "All the Lord's promises prove true. He is a shield for all who look up to Him for protection. 32 For who is God except the Lord? Who but our God is a solid rock? 33 God is my strong fortress, and he makes my way perfect. 34 He makes me as surefooted as a deer, enabling me to stand on mountain heights."
2 Samuel 22:31-33

Maybe the next time my husband has found his silly gene I can appreciate the silliness with him. Maybe we can stand together on that mountain, maybe I won't be so quick to try to pull him off and tell him how foolish he looks. Let it be so, Jesus!