2 Samuel 12:24

The Essential 100® Bible Challenge is a simple tool to read through the Big Story of God's Word. The reading plan is based on 50 Old Testament and 50 New Testament passages. Continue with the eighth part "The Fall of Israel." ®Produced by American Bible Society in partnership with Scripture Union, Inc.

King David is described in the New Testament as a man after God’s own heart, meaning that he aligned his own heart with that of God’s. As we study David’s life, our goal for this series is to analyze the things David did in 1 & 2 Samuel in order to mold our hearts after God’s and resemble the same intensity of focus and spirit that David showcased throughout his life.

We sometimes feel that our past holds us back so badly that we have no future. We think we’ve done something God cannot get past. If you’ve been there, this plan is for you. The Bible is filled with comeback stories from people like Joseph, David, and more. Read this plan to be encouraged by God’s faithfulness in their stories—and learn how he can redeem your story too.

Have you ever noticed the difference between Michal and Bathsheba, David's two wives? Although they live next to the same king, their lives follow opposite paths. Michal clings to appearances, unable to open her heart to God, while, despite her failures, Bathsheba endured with dignity and depth. Their way of living their faith will lead them to opposite destinies: Michal disappears into oblivion, without a trace, while Bathsheba enters into the glory of the divine plan, becoming part of the Messiah's lineage.