“‘Why did you despise the word of the LORD by doing what is evil in his eyes? You struck down Uriah the Hittite with the sword and took his wife to be your own.’”
2 Samuel 12:9
David, king of Israel, was successful and prosperous. Despite his abundance, he saw something that he coveted: another man’s wife (see 2 Samuel 11). From his position of privilege, he considered himself above the law. His presumptuous desires led to lies, adultery, and murder.
Imagine David’s regret when Nathan, the prophet, came and revealed his sins. Though the message was a rebuke for his grievous behavior, it was also a call to repentance and reconciliation. While there were serious consequences, there also was restoration.
The Lord may send a “Nathan” into your life when you need to be convicted. Listen to the Holy Spirit’s voice. Recently, after a powerful time of Bible study with a friend which focused on humility, I later found myself reacting arrogantly and bringing division into a valued relationship. Then came that gentle voice calling me to contrition. Scripture instructs us to grieve and humble ourselves before God and those we have wronged. His love reaches out not to condemn, but to redeem and restore.
Imagine David’s regret when Nathan, the prophet, came and revealed his sins. Though the message was a rebuke for his grievous behavior, it was also a call to repentance and reconciliation. While there were serious consequences, there also was restoration.
The Lord may send a “Nathan” into your life when you need to be convicted. Listen to the Holy Spirit’s voice. Recently, after a powerful time of Bible study with a friend which focused on humility, I later found myself reacting arrogantly and bringing division into a valued relationship. Then came that gentle voice calling me to contrition. Scripture instructs us to grieve and humble ourselves before God and those we have wronged. His love reaches out not to condemn, but to redeem and restore.
Scripture Focus
Psalm 51
Insight
Do you long to be a man or woman after God’s own heart? Remember that He “opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6).
Bible In A Year
- Nehemiah 10-11
- Psalm 36
- Mark 15
