Yesterday, we learned that the spirit of Amnon desires whatever it cannot have. But given the opportunity, it will not hesitate to obtain the object desired (more on this later in the week). We also learned this spirit will mislead others by false statements or actions. In addition to vexation and deception, pretense is the next manifestation of the spirit of Amnon.
Amnon pretended to be sick in order to lure Tamar into his bedchamber. This spirit operates in a false showing in order to lead others astray. Amnon wanted Tamar to yield to his wishes only so that he could have what he wanted. There are individuals in the church who will commit fraud in efforts to appear to be something they, clearly, are not (i.e. writing checks on closed accounts, feign friendship with someone in leadership in hopes of displacing or replacing them, pledging thousands in the sight of others).
Once Amnon had his way, his feelings for Tamar change. Amnon’s longing turns into hate. He dismisses Tamar in a hard and brutal way and therefore drives her into social, emotional, and moral isolation. He puts her out of his presence. Rejection is the last operation of the spirit of Amnon. However, we know an evil spirit is at work because what Amnon does to Tamar cannot be explained simply by sexual desires that are out of control. This is why the scripture says Amnon’s love turned into hate (2 Sam 13:15). One could argue that Amnon’s self-disrespect finds expression in his behavior against Tamar because he treats her as if she’s the one who disgraced him. Psychologists have argued that Amnon’s feelings of guilt manifest themselves involuntarily in disgust and his rejection of her is a new form of aggression. The spirit of Amnon will dismiss as strongly as it entices (i.e. fighting to be a part of a ministry and then fighting to get out).
Look for these signs, not just in others but more importantly, within yourself. The Amnon spirit, when not properly dealt with, develops and ultimately is manifested in destruction. God is more interested in our character than in our charisma, for it takes character, discipline and integrity not to be an Amnon and betray a church, a team or a business. God wants us to be people of integrity, ethics and accountability, and not just influence and gifting. We have so many people falling today and making a stink in the body of Christ because they have gifting and yet no character.
Prayer
Father, In order to be an effective servant I must be in right relationship with you. Purge me of any semblance of the Amnon spirit. I yield totally and completely to you. In Jesus Name, Amen.
Go Deeper?
2 Samuel 13; Proverbs 4; Luke 3:18-20; Luke 8:32-35; 2Cor. 12:21; Gal. 5:19-23; Hebrews 10:38