Consequences

David pleaded with God for the child. He fasted and spent the nights lying in sackcloth on the ground… On the seventh day the child died. (verses 16, 18a)

Read 2 Samuel 12:15-31

We must realise that even though God forgives our sin, there may still be painful consequences for us. David was forgiven. His relationship with God was fully restored, but through Nathan, God also pronounced consequences for David: ‘Out of your own household I am going to bring calamity on you’; ‘one who is close to you… will sleep with your wives’ (verse 11) and ‘The son born to you will die’ (verse 14).

All the consequences spoken by Nathan came to pass, but David was still able to enjoy a good relationship with God.

It is important to realise that painful consequences for our sin does not necessarily mean God is angry with us. When we confess our sins to God, he is faithful and just to forgive our sins too, even if we may have to bear some painful consequences.

How have you experienced the joy of God’s presence and help in the midst of painful situations that were of your own making?

Dear Heavenly Father, please make me a person after your own heart. Teach me your ways and give me joy and help during times of difficulty. Amen.

by Rebecca Cronau in ‘Time Out to Tune in’ (LCA, Australian Christian Resources, 2018)

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