Devotion: David and the Problem with Being Comfortable
David and the Problem with Being Comfortable
Please take the time to read 2 Samuel 12:1-7a, 13a
Oh, dear! David’s in a tight spot and needs to cover up for his great sin with Bathsheba. He thinks that he has figured out a clever solution. But all-knowing and seeing God catches him red-handed. What he thought he had hidden so well is now out in the open.
In today’s scripture reading, God sends Nathan, a prophet, to show David the great sin he has committed with Bathsheba and the consequences of his sinful actions. God’s intent is to restore David to make him whole again.
Nathan tells a story about a rich man who stole a prized lamb from a poor man. David condemns the man in the story, unaware that it was a metaphor for what he’s done to Uriah. David was the rich man who stole Bathsheba, Uriah’s one and only “little lamb”, and later had him killed. David, realizing that man is him, confesses, “I have sinned against God.”
David committed a grave sin and has separated himself from God. But after his encounter with Nathan, David repents for his sin against God. With a heart full of remorse, David writes Psalm 51, which reflects his humility and sincere repentance for what he’s done: “Purify me from my sins and I will be clean; wash me and I will be whiter than snow; Oh, give me back my joy again; you have broken me—now let me rejoice.”
Our current sermon series is based on resiliency when the storms of life rock us to the core. In our darkest moments in life, God gives us the strength to spring back when we come to Him. He restores us to the joy of salvation and sees us “through” our tough times. When David came to God, he was restored and his commitment to God was renewed. Our lives, too, can be buoyant in God’s love and mercy. He invites us to— “Come and be at one with me.”
Good and loving God,
Thank you for your loving presence when I most need you. Draw near to me and restore me into a life shaped by God. Grant me the strength and courage when I face adversity and restore my joy in you. Amen.
Written by Janece Nelson
Janece and husband, Mike, have been members of Sheridan for more than twelve years. Janece is a retired mathematics instructor teaching at the middle school and college level. They are blessed with two children and three grandchildren.
Janece finds her greatest joy in spending time with her family and friends. Her passion is writing devotions for patients in hospitals and rehabs she sees every Monday as a Sheridan hospital visitor. As a Teammate she also mentors girls at Boys Town. Janece credits Faith Builders and Companions in Christ for her spiritual growth.