Unification: A Study in 2 SamuelSample

What does it say?

The Lord sent Nathan to confront David about his sin. David confessed his sin, but he couldn’t escape the consequences of his actions.

What does it mean?

As a king, David judged and settled many cases of injustice, but the tables were flipped when Nathan boldly confronted him about his sin. Nathan’s wise approach allowed David to see and judge the situation impartially. The stark reality was inescapable. The words, “You are the man,” brought David to a point of confession. Despite his royal status, David was not exempt from God’s correction. While God mercifully forgave David’s sin, the consequences required the life of his son born to Bathsheba. What was conceived in secret was fully exposed and became public disaster.

How should I respond?

Confronting others about wrong actions can be intimidating. Sin is awkward and uncomfortable. Hard conversations can lead to anger, resentment, or bitterness. However, when God calls us to walk alongside others he often calls us into hard conversations. James 5:20 tells us that "whoever brings back a sinner from his wandering will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sin." Spiritual life and death can hang in the balance of our willingness to have hard, confrontational conversations. Is there someone in your life you need to have a conversation with? Like Nathan, be sensitive to the Holy Spirit and allow him to guide your timing and approach. Allow the truth of the gospel - that Jesus has graciously and lovingly forgiven you - guide your thoughts and words as you enter into difficult conversations.