Scripture2 Samuel 12:13Then 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…”Observation - What does it say?After committing adultery with Bathsheba, receiving news she was pregnant and having her husband killed, David is confronted by the prophet Nathan. Rather than getting defensive, justifying his actions or minimizing his sin, he confesses. And although he had to face the consequences of his actions, after his confession God forgave him.
Understanding - What does it mean?
When you own your sin and confess it, God forgives.
1 John 1:9 "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."
In these two chapters (11 & 12), David sets both a horrible and an excellent example for us to follow. Obviously his sin in chapter 11 is an example we should learn to avoid. However, when confronted with his sin, his response is one we should learn to follow.
When someone points out a flaw or sin in my life, my natural reaction is to get defensive and even to push the other person away. It’s uncomfortable and painful to be confronted. Put yourself in David’s shoes when Nathan likened him to the wicked man in the story and exclaimed, “You are the man!”
David’s brokenness over his sin was real and genuine. His heart was tender toward God and he demonstrated great humility. After this confrontation with Nathan, David penned Psalm 51 in which he poured out his heart with prayers like these:“Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love.”“Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.”“My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise.”As a result of David’s confession and genuine repentance, he was forgiven and spared the full extent of what his actions deserved.Life ApplicationRather than getting defensive when confronted by others or by the Holy Spirit, choose to examine my heart and actions and to own my wrongs.
God, forgive me for the times I haven’t been open to correction. Forgive me for my pride and defensiveness. Thank you so much for your mercy and grace that you lavish on us when we come to you in humility and repentance. Reveal the areas of sin in our lives that we may repent and receive your mercy and grace. We love you and desire to please you! Amen.
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- Levi Thompson
