In the morning, I spent a really long time making pancakes. Instead of doing multiple pancakes at the same time, I made them individually to keep them uniform in size... In the evening, we made chili, ravioli, and pumpkin bread (thanks to Todd for the recipe). I've been making good progress on my work...

Devotion time questions:

2 Samuel 17

What can I learn about Absalom’s character from the fact that he was persuaded by Hushai’s advice over that of Ahithophel’s?

His pridefulness blinded him from good advice. Absalom was interested in his own glory and not Gods. When told how brave and mighty his father is, Absalom must have felt a pang of pride and insecurity regarding his own reputation.

What can I learn about God’s sovereignty from v. 14 and the fact that these events were an answer to David’s prayer in 2 Samuel 15:31?

Ahithophel's advice might have been certain doom for David, but Absalom's decision making was his own downfall. God did not require any outside source to bring about David's deliverance, only Absalom and his own decision making.

What kind of person is Ahithophel?

He seems to be prideful as well, committing suicide after his advice is rejected in favor of Hushai's.

Who are the people that God placed in David’s life who risked their lives to protect him? Who are the people that God placed in David’s life to provide for him during this desperate time?

Hushai successfully frustrated the plans of Absalom. Jonathan and Ahimaaz were almost captured and killed while trying to deliver the warning message to David. Shobi, Makir, and Barzillai provided supplies for David and his men while they fled.