We learned yesterday how David’s son Adonijah attempted to usurp the throne from his ailing father, who had already decided that Solomon would be his successor. After participating in a coronation ceremony that he planned with his brothers, Adonijah threw a huge party to celebrate his self-appointed reign. The only problem was that while he was busy grabbing power through human means, Solomon — the man chosen by God for the job — was rightfully crowned and received the blessing of the people. This was kind of a spoiler for the guests at Adonijah’s soiree, and Scripture says that when they realized they had been deceived, they got up and quietly left. However, Adonijah himself was trembling in fear, because not only was he guilty before King Solomon, but before the Lord, too. Knowing this, he grabbed onto the horns of the altar, which were a source of mercy for those who had committed accidental murder in Old Testament times. And though he was worthy of much less, because he was repentant, Solomon acted in the Almighty’s authority to grant him pardon, set him free, and send him home. 

My friend, God is rich in mercy. His heart overflows with compassion for people, and He loves to give second chances. Even if your wrongs were intentional, when you turn and run to your Savior, He is faithful to forgive and help you move ahead. Nothing you do can ever separate you from His far-reaching love, and as you approach His throne of grace, you can do it with a heart full of confidence. You are totally accepted in the Beloved, and though you fall, He is ready to pick you up, dust you off, and set you on the right track again.