Inspirational: Caught by Pride: The Fall of Absalom

by: Linda Kirby/WGON 2.23.26

In 2 Samuel 18:9–15, we witness a sobering account of rebellion, pride, and divine justice. Absalom, the son of King David, sought to overthrow his own father and seize the throne. But in his flight from David’s army, it was not a sword or soldier that ended his life—it was his pride.

Absalom was known for his striking appearance, especially his long, flowing hair—a symbol of vanity and self-glory. As he fled through the forest, his hair caught in the low hanging branches of a tree, yanking him from his horse and leaving him suspended, helpless. The very thing he gloried in became the snare that led to his death. Joab, David’s general, found him hanging there and pierced his heart with three spears. It was a tragic end, but one rich with spiritual warning.

Scripture is full of types and shadows—divine patterns that speak to us today. Absalom’s story is one such gem.

*Lesson One: Obedience to the Father

Absalom rebelled against his earthly father, but the deeper warning is against rebellion toward our heavenly Father. God is not indifferent to defiance. His judgment is righteous, and His patience has limits. If we resist His authority, we risk being handed over to the consequences of our own choices. Obedience is not optional—it is life-giving.

* Lesson Two: Pride Kills

Pride was the original sin, and it remains one of the deadliest. Proverbs 16:18 warns us: “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” Absalom’s pride literally lifted him up—until it left him hanging. Pride blinds us to our need for God, isolates us from correction, and sets us on a path toward ruin. Scripture repeatedly calls us to humility, because humility invites grace. Pride invites judgment.

* Lesson Three: Greed Burns

Greed is a fire that consumes everything in its path. It whispers, “More is never enough.” Whether it’s money, power, or influence, greed drives us to chase what we were never meant to hold. Like fire, it burns holes in our soul, leaving us scorched and unsatisfied. Moderation is a safeguard, but obedience is the cure. When we seek first the kingdom of God, we find peace—not in abundance, but in alignment.

* A Word for Today

In our culture, greed is celebrated. People chase status, politicians crave control, and churches compete for size rather than souls. The race to “keep up with the Joneses” has replaced the call to “be holy as He is holy.” But if we spent our energy trying to please our Father in heaven, we wouldn’t end up dangling from the consequences of our own pride.

Let Absalom’s story be a trumpet blast. Rebellion leads to ruin. Pride leads to a fall. Greed leads to fire. But obedience leads to life. Humility leads to grace. And surrender leads to peace.