Perceptive Servant

So Joab the son of Zeruiah perceived that the king’s heart was concerned about Absalom. ² And Joab sent to Tekoa and brought from there a wise woman, and said to her, “Please pretend to be a mourner, and put on mourning apparel; do not anoint yourself with oil, but act like a woman who has been mourning a long time for the dead. ³ Go to the king and speak to him in this manner.” So Joab put the words in her mouth. - 2 Samuel 14:1-3

     Once again I am reminded of what a great man Joab was. He had his faults like any man, but his loyalty is outstanding. He really cares about his king and serves him well. In this passage he is perceptive of David's current internal struggles and goes through a lot of hassle to put a very elaborate plan in motion. He basically hires an actress to try to open David's eyes to what is going on around him. Am I perceptive to what my King is concerned about? When I am close to the Lord I will be able to sense His care and concerns. I will want to serve Him in any way I can. I don't need to hire an actress or "fix" God, but I will go to any length to help do what is best for His plan. This not only challenges me in my relationship with God but also in my relationship with others. How much energy do I exert to help my brothers and sisters in Christ? Do I find a way to help them or just let them deal with their own "personal" issues. I think I often excuse my lack of help by trying not to "interfere" or go "too far" in someone's personal issues. God calls us to help our family. If we are a family, personal issues are personal to us all. May God open my heart to be more in tune with Him and my fellow servants.