Triumph & TurmoilSample

The Danger of Comfort

When we think of King David, we often default to the description that Scripture itself offers: “a man after God’s own heart” (1 Samuel 13:14; cf. Acts 13:22).

What a great thing to be known as! How we long to be remembered in the same way!

It is understandable why King David is often elevated to nearly mythic status and held out as a role model. Certainly, his story contains many moments we should emulate; he is, in many respects, a worthy example.

We see his triumph in showing us what it means to honor God—wanting to build a home for God that was worthy of His presence. David models for us what it means to be a good friend, showing kindness not only to Jonathan but to Jonathan’s descendants.

But David’s story mixes triumph with turmoil—turmoil that is the result of David’s own shortcomings.

Lust, adultery (many feel what David did to Bathsheba is more like sexual assault than adultery), deceit, murder.

All of it stems from the choice David made to relax in his palace instead of going out to war. The text sets the whole story of David and Bathsheba in the context of 2 Samuel 11:1.

David should have gone to war with his army. Instead, he chose to stay home.

That choice was disastrous.

Of course, David did not know what would come of his decision, but it seems clear that he likewise didn’t care. He was caught in a moment of lust. He allowed his lust to have full control. But we must remember that his lust was given opportunity because he had already made a poor choice. He was not where he was supposed to be.

Instead of leading an army on the battlefield, an enemy made a battlefield in his heart and mind. And David, Bathsheba, Uriah, and an infant were all casualties.

Men, we must always be aware that our choices have consequences. We may not be able to see into the future to see them specifically, but even a choice to stay home can lead to disaster.

We must always ask ourselves: Am I supposed to be here?

And if not, how do we find our way back to where we are supposed to be?

Prayer: God, it’s easy to tell myself that I would never do what David did. But while my failures may not be what his were, I’m not immune to temptation. Help me to act with care and diligence in the times when it matters most and least. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Reflection: How much care do you take with your decisions? How often does your location get you into circumstances that can lead to trouble? What would it take to be wiser in this area?