Then David said to Nathan, “I have sinned against the LORD.” Nathan replied, “The LORD has taken away your sin. You are not going to die.” 2 Samuel 12:13 (2 Samuel 10-12, I Chronicles 19)
David’s kingdom continues to expand. While his army was waging springtime campaigns, David remained in his palace where a rooftop stroll introduced him to lust for a married woman, Bathsheba. He slept with her and she conceived. David tried to disguise his sin, but Uriah, Mr. Bathsheba, was of noble character, so David resorted to murder and Uriah perished. God sent Nathan, His prophet, to rebuke David.
From this moment on, the course of David’s life is one of a bitter harvest for what he sowed. This man, described as a man after God’s heart, showed that he did indeed, long to enjoy a relationship with God. David repented and God was gracious and forgave, but his actions created a domino effect of consequences that brought tragedy and grief to his household.
Sin cannot be undone. It can however, be forgiven and washed away. David resides in Heaven, the scripture says he did not die. He lives eternal because he was forgiven. However, he brought shame on the heads of others. David, who loved God first, submitted himself to God’s justice and God was faithful.
David made a mess of things, but the One who wove the universe together had everything under control. From David’s throne came our Savior, Christ the King. Don’t underestimate Grace!
Love,
Gretchen