Read: 2 Samuel 12:1-14
You did it secretly, but I will do this thing before all Israel. (v. 12)
When our children were young, my husband would teach them Bible verses by reciting them together as a chant. One of their favorite verses was Numbers 32:23: “Be sure your sin will find you out.” No one gets away with anything—ever! God sees and knows everything and, as Jesus said, there is “nothing . . . hidden that will not be known” (Luke 12:2).
David and Bathsheba had taken steps to cover up their sin, and as time passed, their son was born. But no doubt some people knew the secret; there would be whispers among the servants, while others would mock their “righteous” king. God sent Nathan the prophet to confront David with his sin. Nathan’s story of the rich herdsman who took and killed the one little ewe lamb that a poor man held dear was deeply disturbing. But even as David called for the death of the rich man, Nathan accused him of this very crime! David had taken Uriah’s wife, and then arranged for his death. His sin had shown contempt for the God of Israel who had made him king.
David and Bathsheba’s sin was extreme and brought public shame to God’s name. God’s response would show them—and Israel—how seriously he took this disobedience. Nathan told David his innocent son would die. Would God show them any mercy? Would there be any grace and forgiveness for David and Bathsheba? And what about their son?
As you pray, thank God for the grace and mercy that are ours in Christ Jesus.
About the Author
Laura N. Sweet is a wife, mother, grandmother, and former Christian schoolteacher from Midland, Michigan. She writes devotional material for both adults and children, and her work has appeared in more than a dozen publications.
