May 1, 2000
Lesson for May 14
LIFE & WORK SERIES:
Even David could not conquer
sin in his own power
___2 Samuel 11-12
___By Debra Hochgraber
___Women's Evangelism Consultant, BGCT, Dallas
___David's victory over Goliath was the first of many. In 2 Samuel 11, we find David, now king over Israel and Judah, staying at home while his armies go off to war. That in itself is not a problem. But David grievously loses a battle with the giant named Lust.
___David had so capably identified and stayed focused on the real enemy as a young man.In this instance, he does not even recognize the enemy when he approaches. He is deceived into believing his lustful desires are legitimate needs. David probably rationalized his sin by telling himself that other kings behave in this manner. He undoubtedly convinced himself that the murder of Uriah was necessary to protect the honor of his position as king. The real enemy, the evil one, is a masterful deceiver, the father of lies.
___Sometimes I wish the Lord had left these chapters out. Yet this dark time in David's life has shown me that all of us are tempted, and not even David was strong enough in himself to stand against the evil one. The reminder that there are consequences for sin, even after we have received forgiveness, has been the impetus I have needed to turn from temptation in various situations. Sin may offer quick gratification, but it requires payment.
___We are tempted. The Lord always gives us a way to escape (1 Corinthians 10:13). When we do not turn from the temptation, we sin. As believers, the Holy Spirit will expose the truth in our hearts, bringing conviction of sin. How should we respond?
___Psalm 51 was born in David's heart after this experience. We can see how he responded. David knew that God is the only one who can forgive sin (vs. 1-2). He agreed with God that his actions were wrong, confessing them as sin (vs. 3). David realized that his sin was against God (vs. 4). Yes, others were tragically hurt. But sin first goes against God's desires, then moves to hurting others. David knew that God's forgiveness was complete (vs. 7-10). He knew he could be used of the Lord again (vs. 13-15).
___David learned something in this experience that we cannot miss. He had been well aware since childhood of the importance of the sacrifices God desired--blood sacrifices, burnt offerings. Sacrifices had to be made for the glory of the Lord to be revealed, for the people to be in his presence. Now David realizes God does not actually delight in the sacrifices themselves (vs. 16). They are merely the representation of what the Lord desires: "A broken and contrite heart" (vs. 17).
___We must not attempt to come into his presence ignoring or rationalizing our sin, trying to lay blame elsewhere, satisfied that our sins are trivial as compared to those around us, arrogant about our good works.
___For those who have recognized and confessed sin, received forgiveness and served as cleansed vessels, thank you. We have seen into the heart of God through you.
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