The Leadership ChallengeSample

Challenge 17

DAVID: AFTER MORAL FAILURE

READ: 2 Samuel 11:1—12:31

David is described in the Scriptures as a man after God’s own heart (Acts 13:22), yet he was certainly not perfect. In fact, he committed both adultery and murder—two offenses that deserved the death sentence under the law of Moses. In this reading, David the king lingers in the capital, neglecting his duties while his army is in the field. He pursues Bathsheba even after he learns she is the wife of Uriah, one of his commanders. He tries to cover up his role in the resulting pregnancy by making it appear that Uriah is the father. When this fails, he orders Uriah to be placed in a dangerous position on the battlefield so that he will be killed. It takes a carefully crafted intervention by the prophet Nathan before David will admit his fault and repent. Psalm 32 and 51 are often connected with this story. We see God forgiving David, continuing to use him and even redeeming his relationship with Bathsheba. But Nathan’s prophecy will prove true: David will face painful consequences in his life, his family, and his nation as a result of his moral failure.

There will be times when we and those we lead will act in ways that require God’s uncomfortable and restorative grace. According to the reading, how was David confronted with his sin? How does he respond in this passage? In Psalms 32 and 51? Are you trying to hide a moral failure? Are there leaders in your team who need caring confrontation?