Strategies to Defeat Temptation – Part 3

Have you ever noticed that some of the most critical and judgmental people might be the people who are hiding the most sin? If you’re hiding sin in your life, you become even more critical and judgmental of others, and this is where David is. He becomes judgmental and very hypocritical. But thankfully, God brought Nathan into David’s life to guide him in love. In 2 Samuel 12 we read about a pivotal moment in David’s life. A Godly leader confronts him, and his response will determine his future. 

Proactive Strategy #3: Develop Relationships That Guide You to Jesus.

1 And the Lord sent Nathan to David. He came to him and said to him, “There were two men in a certain city, the one rich and the other poor. 2 The rich man had very many flocks and herds, 3 but the poor man had nothing but one little ewe lamb, which he had bought. And he brought it up, and it grew up with him and with his children. It used to eat of his morsel and drink from his cup and lie in his arms, and it was like a daughter to him. 4 Now there came a traveler to the rich man, and he was unwilling to take one of his own flock or herd to prepare for the guest who had come to him, but he took the poor man’s lamb and prepared it for the man who had come to him.” 5 Then David’s anger was greatly kindled against the man, and he said to Nathan, “As the Lord lives, the man who has done this deserves to die, 6 and he shall restore the lamb fourfold, because he did this thing, and because he had no pity.” 7 Nathan said to David, “You are the man! (2 Samuel 12:1-7)

Nathan is an excellent example of loving confrontation. We all need someone who loves us enough to point out sin in our lives. We each need a relationship with a mentor, leader, or godly friend who will ask the hard questions: “How’s your marriage? How’s your sex life with your spouse? Are you looking at pornography? Are you flirting with anyone at work?” Questions from a Godly friend are helpful to hold us accountable and motivate us to overcome the temptations of the enemy. Relationships that point you to Jesus could make all the difference in your life.

David’s initial response to the story is to condemn the rich man who took the poor man’s lamb. David wanted the penalty to be death. Obviously, David wants justice served toward others, but he wants to keep his sin hidden.13 David said to Nathan, “I have sinned against the Lord.” And Nathan said to David, “The Lord also has put away your sin; you shall not die. 14 Nevertheless, because by this deed you have utterly scorned the Lord, the child who is born to you shall die.” (2 Samuel 12:13-14)

Finally, we see the result of David’s sin. Please don’t miss how David acknowledged his sin and repented. Bathsheba gave birth to the baby, but he became very sick. David prayed and fasted and pleaded with God to heal the child. But after seven days, the baby died. We won’t be able to figure out why God answers some prayers and chooses not to answer others. But there’s an important lesson here I don’t want you to miss. After the death of his child, he says, “Can I bring him back again? I will go to him, but he will not return to me.” (2 Sam 12:23b). David is saying I can’t bring the child back to life, but one day “I will go to him.” David means that his infant child will be in heaven, and one day, David will join him there. The encouraging lesson is that God’s grace covers children who die, and they will be in heaven for eternity. Perhaps you have lost a child, and your heart is forever heavy for them. Hold on to the truth that if you have faith in Jesus and heaven is your home, you will meet your child face to face one day.

24 Then David comforted his wife, Bathsheba, and went into her and lay with her, and she bore a son, and he called his name Solomon. And the Lord loved him. (2 Samuel 12:24)

Out of tragedy and chaos, God’s grace triumphed over David’s sin. God blessed David and Bathsheba with another son named Solomon. Solomon became the wisest man who ever lived and one of the greatest kings that Israel ever had. God used this bloodline to one day bring Jesus, the Savior of the world.

Despite our sins, Jesus is born and offers us forgiveness, grace, hope, and help. He offers healing from your pain. He provides encouragement and a path that leads to overcoming shame and guilt. You must confess, repent, and run to the Father’s love. His arms are open wide, waiting for you to experience the grace and forgiveness that only Jesus offers.

Your story is not over. Out of your tragedy, God’s grace will flow. Run to Him today.

Today’s Prayer: Heavenly Father, you are good and gracious. I surrender my plan to you today. I confess my sin to You, I ask for Your forgiveness and healing.  Purify me and protect me from temptation.  Thank you for your kindness and love. I trust You alone for salvation and truth. In Jesus Name, AMEN!