Day 17

Have you ever made a mistake and thought it was the end for you? That no matter what you did to try to make up for it, it couldn’t be redeemed? Today, we’re going to dive deeper into the life of David. The man who, by faith, became the great king of Israel and set the standard for generations to follow. Though commonly known as a man after God’s heart, he had a shaky season in his life that easily could have ruined his fate and reign as king.

In 2 Samuel 11, David lusted after a married woman, Bathsheba. When she became pregnant by him, he used his position of authority to have her husband, Uriah, murdered. That’s certainly not behavior suitable for a king! In our limited view of reality and justice, it’s easy for us to look at this situation and just know that David probably ruined his future and reputation. There was no way God was going to be willing to use him anymore. After all, how could he have gotten away with such heinous acts? How could he have been forgiven after violating not just one, but multiple laws? How prideful did he have to be to think he was above the law?

God, however, with His broader lens, knew exactly what needed to happen.

God saw the potential that David had and knew his mistakes had no place in defining who he was or what was going to be in store for his future. He knew that a works-based faith could not ultimately be what redeemed David. He knew that though David’s actions here didn’t reflect it, he humbly cared for his people and would be willing to do whatever it took to amplify God’s kingdom. Most importantly, God knew that He had a greater plan for a Savior to come and redeem every transgression of the world 28 generations down the line.

Because God knew that David’s past wasn't going to mark his life and the generations to follow, David claimed that as well. David could have walked in shame and defeat from his actions, but he instead ran to the Father, acknowledged his rebellious spirit, and pleaded that his sins and shame would be washed clean. All it took was a humble spirit and complete surrender for the Father to turn a broken situation into something far greater than David could have imagined. Though David knew he was forgiven, God took it even further and allowed David’s bloodline to be the one to which our Savior would be born. God is gracious to forgive and redeem us when we turn to Him!

Action Step: Just as David brought his shame to the feet of his Father, we can do the same. What past sins or struggles do you still feel shame for? Pray Psalm 51 over your situation and claim the victory of Christ over all sins and strongholds in your life!