David sinned against God, and he suffered consequences for it. [God promised through Prophet Nathan that he would make David pay for his adultery with Bathsheba, and for killing her husband (2 Samuel 12:7-12)].
Crises erupted in David’s house. Two of his children committed incest; one of them committed homicide. One David’s son killed his own brother and also made love to his father’s concubines in public. The same child also overthrew David from the throne and attempted to kill him. David lost his throne and became a fugitive overnight. Mr. David lost everything he had and was greatly distressed. Some references that unveiled David’s affliction as a result of his sins are highlighted as follow:
1. David’s children committed incest: “…But she answered him, “No, my brother, do not force me, for no such thing should be done in Israel. Do not do this disgraceful thing! And I, where could I take my shame? And as for you, you would be like one of the fools in Israel. Now, therefore, please speak to the king; for he will not withhold me from you.” However, he would not heed her voice; and being stronger than she, he forced her and lay with her” (2 Samuel 13:12-14)
2. David’s son killed his brother: “Now Absalom had commanded his servants,
saying, “Watch now, when Amnon’s heart is merry with wine, and when I say to you, ‘Strike Amnon!’ then kill him. Do not be afraid. Have I not commanded you? Be courageous and valiant. “So the servants of Absalom did to Amnon as Absalom had commanded. Then all the king’s sons arose, and each one got on his mule and fled” (2 Samuel 13:28-29).
3. David’s son committed adultery with his concubines: “And Ahithophel said to
Absalom, “Go into your father’s concubines, whom he has left to keep the house; and all Israel will hear that you are abhorred by your father. Then the hands of all who are with you will be strong.” So they pitched a tent for Absalom on the top of the house, and Absalom went into his father’s concubines in the sight of all Israel” (2 Samuel 16:21-22).
4. David’s son overthrew him and wanted him dead: “Now a messenger came to
David, saying, “The hearts of the men of Israel are with Absalom.” So David said to all his servants who were with him at Jerusalem, “Arise and let us flee, or we shall not escape from Absalom. Make haste to depart, lest he overtakes us suddenly and bring disaster upon us, and strike the city with the edge of the sword” (2 Samuel 15:13-14).
Lesson:
Sin irritates God, it is evil, and it can cause a child of God to suffer. Sin forces God to withdraw his protection from anyone who engages in it and also grants the opportunity for Satan to strike. Hence, children of God should be careful not to entertain sin since it incurs a negative impact. However, there is hope for a sinner who repents from his/her sins. The merciful and forgiving God will show mercy on anyone who humbly confesses his/her sins, and repent from them.
Prayer:
Dear God, please guide my footsteps so that I do not sin against you. Do not let me sin against you so that Satan will not have an advantage over me. Empower me through your Holy Spirit to obey all your commandments, and help me to faithfully serve you so that I can prosper throughout the days of my life. For in the name of Jesus Christ I make my requests. amen.
