If you're not familiar with this story from the Bible, take a moment to consider what you think happens next. The title of this devotional might give you a small hint, but the background is important to understand the full picture. David was known as a man after God's own heart (1 Samuel 13:14 and Acts 13:22). Still, even with that title, he gave in to temptation. David, the king of Israel, had an affair with the wife of one of his soldiers. When she became pregnant, David plotted to cover up the situation. The full account is found in 2 Samuel chapters 11 and 12.
Now that you're caught up, the opening scripture of this devotional brings us to the turning point. Nathan, a prophet, instructed by the Lord, approaches David and tells him a parable about a man who committed a cruel and unjust act. David becomes furious at the injustice and declares that the man deserves to be punished. Then Nathan delivers the shocking truth: "You are the man."
David is suddenly faced with the humbling reality of what he had done. He needed to be shown how far he had fallen. Sometimes we all need to see the person in the mirror for who we really are. Nathan likely understood that simply accusing David might not break through, but a story that held up a mirror to his behavior would. At times, we too need someone to help us see where we've gone wrong.
How Should We Respond When We're Shown Our Faults?
- Listen before reacting. When someone brings something to your attention, pause. Ask God to help you hear what is true, even if it is painful.
- Examine your heart. Ask yourself honestly if there is any pride, selfishness, or hidden sin you have been ignoring.
- Confess and repent. Bring it to God in prayer. He is faithful to forgive and restore when we come to Him sincerely.
- Make it right with others. If your actions have hurt someone, take steps to make amends. Apologize, seek reconciliation, and show through your actions that your heart has changed.
- Move forward with grace. Don't live in shame. God's forgiveness is real. Learn from the mistake, grow from it, and let God use it to shape you into someone more like Christ.
Prayer:
Our Father in Heaven, thank You for the grace You extend to me. Please reveal to me when I have fallen, and show me the way forward with You. Forgive me, and allow me to make amends with anyone I've hurt. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Author: Travis White | 05-18-2025
