It Leaves a Mark

Few stories in the Bible are as difficult to deal with as the story of David’s adultery with Bathsheba. To make matters worse, David arranged for the death of Bathsheba’s husband Uriah, a detail many choose to ignore because the facts are just too gruesome.

We learn through this story that even if we repent—confess and forsake sin—and even if we receive God’s grace and forgiveness—the aftereffects of sin can remain. Sin can change the sinner’s life history—and the past impacts the present and future. It—sin—leaves a mark.

Although the Bible tells us about David’s pure heart—a heart that longed for fellowship with God—David could not escape the effect his sin against Bathsheba and Uriah would have on the future of his family and his nation.

The prophet Nathan confronted David’s sin indirectly by sharing a story that revealed the horror of his actions. David did not even recognize himself in the story until Nathan confronted him directly: Why did you despise the word of the Lord by doing what is evil in his eyes? (II Sam 12:9a) Then Nathan prophesied events that would happen because David had sinned: Out of your own household I am going to bring calamity upon you. (v. 11)

When David broke down in full repentance, Nathan continued with a statement of forgiveness. But some things cannot be changed after they have been set in motion. The prophet adds, The Lord has taken away your sin . . . But because by doing this you have made the enemies of the Lord show utter contempt, the son born to you will die.”(v. 13a.14)

David’s fellowship with God was restored, but the seeds of discord laid a foundation for spiritual and physical battles throughout his sphere of influence. Of course, that included his family. They would be impacted first. And because he was king, David's sin would affect the entire nation.

Originally published September 5, 1986.
Picture: Wild sunflowers, scenic overlook of Theodore Rosevelt National Park, 2009. Photo by Solveig.

Another Opportunity

When Adam and Eve sinned in the Garden of Eden, they hid from the presence of God. “God called to Adam and said to him, Where are you? (Gen. 3:9 NKJV)

Adam did not understand the implications of his sin, and he did not realize the futility of trying to cover it up. So he threw away an opportunity to confess. I heard your voice in the garden,” he said, “and I was afraid because I was naked; and I hid myself. (v. 10)

But God doesn’t stop with one opportunity. He provides another. And the next time God was more direct with Adam: Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten from the tree . . . ? (v. 11a)

This time, realizing he had exposed himself and that he could not deny the fact, he tried to blame it on his wife Eve—and missed another opportunity to confess.

Confessing sin doesn’t mean we will not suffer the consequences of our actions. After all, nothing could change the consequences of Adam and Eve’s sin and subsequent Fall. But confessing sin before God brings forgiveness--brings us back into God’s Presence. What a shame to miss those opportunities.

Originally published January 31, 1992.

Focus on the Heart

Jesus said, If any one chooses to do God’s will, he will find out whether my teaching comes from God or whether I speak on my own.” (Jn. 7:17 NIV)

Some people quickly identify Jesus as the source of salvation. Peter boldly confessed, You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” (Mt. 16:16) But there are others who have difficulty accepting Jesus as God’s ultimate revelation.

Jesus understands the human dilemma. While we might try to convince someone of truth, Jesus does not answer on an intellectual basis. Jesus’ method for changing an opinion is to bring about spiritual insight. He asks people to consider if they desire to do God’s will. The heart—not the mind--either leads a person toward or away from truth.

The focus must be on the heart. Our thought processes will rationalize whatever the heart wants to believe.

Originally published March 11, 1983.
Picture: Flowers, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2008. Photo by Solveig.