ODJ: sin’s sting

August 30, 2013 

READ: 2 Samuel 12:7-14 

Why, then, have you despised the word of the Lord and done this horrible deed? (v.9).

For 2 years the incumbent President, who was from the rival party, denied any involvement whatsoever. In reality, however, he had ordered a cover up of the incident. ‘The Watergate cover up’ resulted in the resignation of the President of America and the imprisonment of 43 people, including dozens of high-ranking officials.
King David had committed deceit, adultery and murder. But he conspired to cover up his wrongdoings. So God sent his prophet Nathan to confront and uncover David’s sins (2 Samuel 12:1).

Nathan said, “This is what the Lord says” (v.11). He reminded David that there was a higher authority to whom he, even as the king of Israel, must give an account. It was God who had blessed David. Without Him, David was simply a poor shepherd! (vv.7-8). In his covetousness and pride, David had rejected and despised God as his provider and protector! (v.10).

In grace, God removes the guilt of sin (v.13). But through government, God punishes sin. Although forgiven, David paid a heavy price for his sins: “four sheep for each sheep stolen” (Exodus 22:1; 2 Samuel 12:1-4) and his family would “live by the sword” (v.10). The child of adultery died (v.14), and David’s three other sons died “by the sword” in family feuds (13:29, 18:15; 1 Kings 2:25).

David learned that his sins had dire consequences. When we sin, we displease and despise God (2 Samuel 11:27, 12:9-10,14). May we choose instead to walk with Him in truth and honour. —K.T. Sim