God: The Spiritual Thirst-Quencher.

Psalms 41-42

As the deer pants for streams of water, so I long for you, O God. I thirst for God, the living God. When can I come and stand before him? ­– Psalms 42:1-2 NLT

We are spiritual beings, and as such, each of us has a soul that sometimes suffers from spiritual thirst. The heat of life can leave our souls dry and parched – in need of spiritual refreshment. Even those who have no relationship with Christ and don't believe in God suffer from spiritual thirst. And when it happens they, like those of us who are Christ-followers, seek out a way to satisfy their thirst. But there do they turn? If the thirst is minimal they will probably turn to the things that tend to satisfy their tastes, not their thirst. It's a lot like when you or I find ourselves a bit thirsty in the middle of the day. I'm talking about average thirst here, not your heat-of-the-summer-working-in-the-yard kind of thirst. When we are slightly thirsty, we probably think of grabbing a cold glass of our favorite soda or iced tea. In other words, we attempt to settle our thirst by satisfying our desires. But most of our choices don't end up taking care of our real problem. They taste good for the moment, but they make lousy thirst-quenchers. But if we find ourselves really thirsty, like we can get after a hard workout or a day of yard work in ninety degree weather, we usually crave one thing and one thing only – a glass of cold water. Our bodies are wired that way. We seem to know that nothing else will satisfy. No other drink or beverage appeals to us like water does in those moments. We crave it. We have to have it. Like a man in the desert dying of thirst, we dream of satisfying our need with cold, refreshing, life-giving water.

There is a similar reaction wired into every human being when they face real spiritual thirst. We are all programmed to seek the one thing that will satisfy that need – God. But because of sin, we are prone to seek replacements. Our sin nature tempts us to find something else to meet our need. So we turn to sex, success, alcohol, popularity, or a thousand other God-replacements. Our desires tell us that these things will satisfy our thirst. But like an iced-cold Coke on a hot summer day, they only mask our real need. They temporarily seem to satisfy our thirst, but leave us craving more. And despite what Coke may tell us – when it comes to spiritual thirst – it is NOT the real thing. David seemed to know that there was one place and one place only for satisfying real spiritual thirst, and that was God. He described his soul as longing for God, like a deer that pants for a cool, clear stream of water. During the difficult days of life, when things seem to be going against him, David longed for God. He knew nothing else would satisfy what was really going on in his life. More power, more money, more sexual satisfaction, more of anything would prove to be a faulty substitute for God. Which is why he said, "Why am I discouraged? Why so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again -- my Savior and my God!" (Psalms 42:11 NLT). When his soul became thirsty, he was going to seek out God as his thirst-quencher. But where do we turn when spiritual thirst hits us? What do we long for? Like David, we need to learn that nothing satisfies like God.

Father, spiritual thirst hits me on a regular basis. But at times I still tend to seek out things that satisfy my sinful desires rather than You. I allow the enemy to tempt me into believing that other things can satisfy the thirst of my soul, when only You can. Thank You for using the difficulties of life to remind me that there is only place to satisfy the thirst in my soul, and that is in You. Amen



Confession Isn't Just Good For The Soul.

Psalms 5; 38

But I confess my sins; I am deeply sorry for what I have done. ­– Psalms 38:18 NLT

In Psalm 38 David talks openly about the effects of his own sin. He describes the suffering, the sorrow, and the pain he is undergoing. And he acknowledges that what he is experiencing is the result of his sin and the rebuke of God. "Because of your anger, my whole body is sick; my health is broken because of my sins. My guilt overwhelms me -- it is a burden too heavy to bear" (Psalms 38:3-4 NLT). David doesn't tell us what he has done, but he fully believes that his sin and God's anger over it are the cause for his distress. Now while this Psalm does NOT teach that all suffering is the result of our sins, it does make clear that sin has consequences, sometimes very harsh consequences. David's suffering is real. "I am exhausted and completely crushed. My groans come from an anguished heart" (Psalms 38:8 NLT). "I am on the verge of collapse, facing constant pain" (Psalms 38:17 NLT). He is racked with pain and guilt. He longs for release and relief. So what does he do? He confesses his sin before God. He admits what he has done before the one against whom he has sinned. He simply agrees with God that his guilt is justified because his sin is real. David knows that confession is the key to restoration – both physically and spiritually. But his confession is more than just an admission of guilt. It is accompanied by sorrow for having sinned against God. "But I confess my sins; I am deeply sorry for what I have done" (Psalms 38:18 NLT). The actual word used there can be translated "concerned, worried, or anxious." David wasn't just sorry, he was literally bothered by what he had done. His own sin had made him uncomfortable. It had internal as well as external consequences.

So often, it seems that our sins fail to bother us. We can appear unconcerned about what we have done to offend a holy God, and suffer anxiety over the results of our sin, but not over the sin itself. But David was bothered by his sin. It disturbed him. It is only when our sin begins to worry and concern us that we truly confess it to God. Confession is not a magic elixir we drink or incantation we speak that mysteriously reverses the negative conditions we face. It is an honest acknowledgment of our own guilt and culpability. It is a point we reach when our sin bothers us as much as it does God. Our own sin concerns us and we become repulsed by it enough to confess it before God. The word "confess" simply means to make known, declare, or acknowledge. It's to verbally declare before God what you have done to offend Him. It is to put into words what you have done and take ownership of it. David knew that confession was the key to his restoration and he was willing to wait on God to receive it. "For I am waiting for you, O LORD. You must answer for me, O Lord my God" (Psalms 38:15 NLT). But why is it so hard for us to confess? What is it about our sin that makes it difficult for us to simply admit it? Could it be that our sin doesn't really concern or bother us? Have we learned to rationalize our behavior and minimize our own sin? Confession is good for the soul, but according to David, it was good for a lot more than that. Many of us suffer because we refuse to confess. And we refuse to confess because we aren't really bothered by our sin.

Father, don't let me focus on the consequences of my sin, but on the sin itself. Let it bother me. May I truly be sorry for my sin because I realize the damage that it brings into my life and the lives of others. Forgive me for the many times I want to minimize it and rationalize it away. May I learn like David to feel sorrow over it and turn that sorrow into an open confession before You. You want to restore. You desire to bring healing and forgiveness. But it has to begin with confession. Amen



When Righteousness and Justice Reign.

2 Samuel 21

During the reign of David, there was a famine for three successive years; so David sought the face of the LORD. ­– 2 Samuel 21:1a NLT

As we have seen, David was far from perfect. He made a lot of mistakes as a father and as a king. But the one thing that set David apart from Saul and the vast majority of the kings who would follow him, was his devotion to God. He truly was a man after God's own heart. He cared for and was passionate about the things of God. He desired to do God's will and obey His commands. When he failed to do so, he willingly accepted God's rebuke and patiently sought His forgiveness. We see time and time again where David sought the face of the Lord. He wanted to rule according to the will of God. He wanted God to be the one to guide and direct His steps. And chapter 21 shows once again how David was able to rule righteously and justly. He sought God's face. He turned to God for wisdom.

David found himself ruling during three years of extreme famine. The land was suffering and so were the people. So David sought God to find out the cause of this event, and God gives him the reason. It was because Saul had been unfaithful to Israel's covenant with the Gibeonites. Saul had evidently refused to acknowledge Israel's treaty with the Gibeonites (Joshua 9) and put some of them to death. As a result, God punished Israel with a famine (lack of fertility). When God informed David about the cause of the famine, he determined to right the wrong, according to the Mosaic Law. He made sure that justice was done. He asked the Gideonites what it was going to take to bring them satisfaction (propitiate) and remove (expiate) the famine from the land. But at the same time, David acted justly by keeping his promise to Mephibosheth, he son of Saul. He protected Mephibosheth and did not turn him over to the Gibeonites. David also removed the bodies of the seven men who were executed and gave them proper burials, along with Saul and Jonathan. In this whole affair, David acted righteously and justly. And because of David's actions, God restored fertility to the land again.

David's actions illustrated that he was a covenant-keeping, righteous-ruling king just like God. He did what was right, even if it meant correcting a wrong that someone else had committed. He willingly cleaned up the mess that Saul had made and restored God's blessing on Israel in the process. This chapter gives us a glimpse of what it looks like to rule righteously and justly. And this can apply to a father in his home, a business owner at their office, a pastor over his flock, or a politician over his constituents. And it begins with seeking God's face. David was able to do what was right and just because he had a right relationship with God. He knew the heart of God. He also knew the law of God. He was not at a loss as to what was going to be required to right his wrong. So he was able to respond quickly, appropriately, and justly.

Father, may we learn to rule and reign like David, regardless of the size or scope of our "kingdom." May I learn to administer justice in my home in a godly way. May I learn to respond to the spiritual famines in my life by seeking Your face and doing Your will in order to see justice done. Give me a heart like David had. Amen



The Loving Rebuke of a Friend.

2 Samuel 19-20

Now go out there and congratulate the troops, for I swear by the LORD that if you don't, not a single one of them will remain here tonight. Then you will be worse off than you have ever been. ­– 2 Samuel 19:7 NLT

These two chapters read like a television soap opera. There are so many plots and sub-plots it's difficult to follow what is even going on. There are stories of deception, jealousy, murder and betrayal. David is returning to Jerusalem after the death of his rebellious son, Absalom. But rather than rejoicing with his successful troops, David is in mourning. He is weeping over the loss of Absalom. And his response is having a negative impact on his troops. Instead of seeing their king celebrate their victory and his triumphal return to power, they are watching him mope about as if he had lost everything. Once again, David's leadership skills and decision-making abilities come into question. And the only one who is willing to confront him about it is his good friend Joab.

Joab gets fed up with David's behavior and boldly challenges him. He is willing to risk all in order to issue a wake-up call to David. His words are difficult, but are filled with love and truth. He is concerned for David and his kingdom. He knows that if David continues down the path he is going, he will lose the loyalty of his army and things will be worse off than when Absalom took over his throne. Sometimes the hardest people to confront are the ones who are in authority. We act as if we don't have the right to tell them the truth and we fear possible reprisals. But Joab was willing to lose everything. He knew that this was a critical time in David's reign. Things were unstable. David was not acting rationally. So Joab intervened and said what needed to be said – out of love. There comes a time in each of our lives when we have to be the bearer of truth to one we love. Joab loved David enough to tell him the truth. Just as Nathan loved David enough to confront him about his sin with Bathsheba.

Joab's words were a wake-up call for David. They shook him out of his lethargy and caused him to take appropriate action. The people of Israel needed a bold, decisive leader at this juncture of their history. Things were volatile. The nation was a powder keg of emotion and the last thing they needed was an emotion-driven king who could not lead effectively. So Joab's words were timely. His rebuke was lovingly appropriate. He said what needed to be said and risked everything to do it. Would we be willing to do the same thing for a friend?

Father, most of us fear confrontation. We run from it. And yet there are times when we need to step up and speak up. We need to be Joab to the Davids in our lives. We need to boldly confront out of love. Help us to recognize those occasions and to obediently listen to Your Spirit's leading. May we listen to Your promptings and take the risk to say what needs to be said. Amen



My Salvation Comes From Him.

Psalms 61-62; 64

I wait quietly before God, for my salvation comes from him. ­– Psalms 62:1 NLT

Where does your salvation come from? Or better yet, where do you think it comes from? For the answer to those two questions, consider where you turn when things get tough. When you run into difficulty where do you tend to run for help? Your checking account? Your own intelligence? Your problem-solving skills? Is the remedy you seek earthly or heavenly? If we're honest, most of us would have to admit that we have a lot of sources of salvation in our lives. Or at least we think we do. Even though most of them fail to deliver what they promise or what we expect, we keep going back to them – hoping that they can protect us and provide for us what we need.

But David said he was going to wait quietly before God, because he knew that his salvation was going to come from Him and nothing else. Look at how many times he made this point in Psalms 62 alone:

"I wait quietly before God, for my salvation comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress where I will never be shaken." – Psalms 62:1-2 NLT

"I wait quietly before God, for my hope is in him. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress where I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor come from God alone. He is my refuge, a rock where no enemy can reach me." – Psalms 62:5-7 NLT

David's hope was in God. Not in money, success, popularity, prosperity, fame, or fortune. David was a man of action. He was a military leader and a warrior. He was not afraid to go into battle or make a decision, but he was learning to wait on God. Impulsiveness can be a costly temptation for the believer. In our desire to get out from under pressure or escape trials, we can be tempted to take matters into our own hands. The enemy doesn't want us to wait, he wants us to act – impulsively and independently. He wants us to be our own gods, our own saviors. But a big part of worship is submission and dependence. God gets glory when we rely on Him. He is honored when we look to Him for shelter and protection. Trials and troubles are often nothing more than opportunities to trust in God and honor Him with our admissions of need for protection and salvation.

But as David was learning, a big part of trusting God is sometimes learning to WAIT on God. No demands. No dictating what you want done and when. A big part of trusting God is relying on Him to make the best decision and provide the best timing. He will do what needs to be done when it needs to be done. The more we lean to trust Him, the more we will find ourselves rejoicing in Him, because God is always faithful. "The godly will rejoice in the LORD and find shelter in him. And those who do what is right will praise him" (Psalms 64:10 NLT).

Father, I am not the most patient person in the world. I am impulsive, reactionary, and prone to take matters into my own hands. Difficulty tends to make me respond impulsively. I want the problem to go away. I want to get out from under whatever is hanging over my head. But You want me to learn to trust You, to turn to You, and to wait on You. May I learn to see trials as opportunities to see You work. May I see difficulties as reminders of my need for and dependence upon You. I am weak, but You are strong. I am needy and You are abundant. May I learn to wait on You, because You alone are my true salvation. Amen



He's Thinking About Me!

Psalms 26; 40; 58

As for me, I am poor and needy, but the Lord is thinking about me right now. You are my helper and my savior. Do not delay, O my God. ­– Psalms 40:17 NLT

The Lord is thinking about me right now. What a thought. What an encouragement. But do I really believe it? Do I live as though it is really true? I am convinced that David believed it to be true in his life. That is why he kept turning to God in the midst of all his problems. He knew that God was watching over him, even thinking about him. David's God was sovereign, in complete control and fully aware of all that was going on his life, every second of every day. God was thinking about him constantly. And David talked about God constantly. "I have not kept this good news hidden in my heart; I have talked about your faithfulness and saving power. I have told everyone in the great assembly of your unfailing love and faithfulness" (Psalms 40:10 NLT). David talked about God to others. He bragged about God. He boasted in God. He wanted everyone to know about God's unfailing love and faithfulness.

But sometimes I can spend more time complaining about God than bragging about Him. Sure, I do it subtly. I don't complain DIRECTLY about God. That's too dangerous. I just complain about my circumstances. I complain about the situations I find myself in. But if God is in complete control, then I am really complaining about Him. I am saying that He doesn't know what He is doing, that He is not faithful and loving. That somehow He has made a mistake and allowed things into my life that I do not deserve and that will not end up doing me any good. But David said, "I have told all your people about your justice" (Psalms 40:9 NLT). David had learned to accept the good with the bad. He knew that he could trust God and therefore every circumstance in life was there for a reason. God was going to use it to bless David and bring glory to Himself. Even in the midst of negative circumstances David was bragging about God's faithfulness and love. These three Psalms reveal that things were not necessarily going well for David when he wrote them. He still had problems. He still had enemies. Life was not easy. But he still managed to brag on God as he cried out to God. He still kept telling others of God's trustworthiness even when things weren't going quite the way he wanted them to go. Do I do that? Do I brag on my God even when things aren't quite to my liking? The honest answer is NO. But I want to learn to do just that. He is thinking about me. He loves and cares about me. I must convince myself of that truth. He has done so much to prove it to be true. But I must learn to dwell on the reality of His unconditional love and acceptance of me. Then make it a habit to brag about Him. To tell others about Him, even in the midst of the tough times. Because He really is there, just as much as when things are going well. He is thinking about me!

Father, what an amazing truth. You are thinking about me – every single day of my life. You are never NOT thinking about me. You are never NOT aware of what is going on in my life. And You always love me. You have my best in mind all the time. Thank You for that reminder. Help me to live as if I believe it. Help me learn to brag on You every moment of every day. Because You deserve it. Amen



A Hollow Victory.

2 Samuel 18

O my son Absalom! My son, my son Absalom! If only I could have died instead of you! O Absalom, my son, my son. ­– 2 Samuel 18:33 NLT

This chapter should strike a chord with any parent. Here we have David having to deal with a rebellious son who has turned on him and is now out to take over his throne and eliminate him altogether. What would it be like to go through that as a parent? Some of us might have had children who were rebellious or who have been out of control, but I doubt any of us have had sons who have tried to kill us. Can you imagine the mixed emotions David was feeling? On the one hand, this is a man who killed one of David's sons in cold blood. He is also the man who attempted to turn the citizens of Jerusalem against David and then successfully took over his kingdom. He also raped all of David's concubines he had left behind in the city when David had to flee. This son had made David's life a living hell. He had caused untold pain and discomfort for David. And David knew the only thing that was going to resolve this conflict was a battle. Lives were going to be lost, possibly his own or the life of Absalom.

Then the inevitable happens. The troops of Absalom do battle with the troops of David and Absalom is killed by Joab, David's friend and military commander. Can you imagine how David felt when he heard this news? It was a victory, but a hollow one. He had won, but at the expense of his own son's life. While his troops were probably rejoicing, David reacted with mourning. He missed his son. He wished he had died instead. This was the natural reaction of a loving parent. David regretted that his sins had led to Absalom's death. God had warned him that, as a result of his sin with Bathsheba, family conflict would a permanent part of his future. "From this time on, your family will live by the sword" (2 Samuel 12:10 NLT). "Because of what you have done, I will cause your own household to rebel against you" (2 Samuel 12:11 NLT). David knew that he was ultimately responsible for Absalom's death. He had failed to deal with Amnon's rape of Tamar, forcing Absalom to take matters into his own hands and murder Amnon to avenge his sister. David also failed to deal with Absalom's actions, allowing him to run away instead. Every step of the way, David failed to do his job as a father and the king. Now he was reaping the sad results.

David's conflict was over. But at a steep price. He had won the battle and lost a son. So he did what any parent would do. He mourned. Perhaps this is the same way God feels every time one of the sons or daughters He has created rebels against Him and refused to accept His free gift of grace. Absalom's rebellion against David could not go unpunished. Man's rebellion against God cannot go unpunished either. But God sent His own son to pay the price for our rebellion. Jesus died on a cross as a payment for our sin and rebellion. But unless we accept that free gift, we remain guilty and unforgiven. We stand to be punished for our sin and that punishment is death – resulting in permanent separation from God. David would never see Absalom again. And while there is a certain joy in victory over a rebellious enemy, David would have preferred restoration and redemption. So would God.

Father, You don't rejoice over having to punish men for their sins. You see them as sons. You long to see their rebellion repented of and their hearts returned to You. You have even provided a way for them to return and receive forgiveness for their sin and rebellion. Yet so many continue to reject You and Your generous offer. Thank You for Your love that continues to reach out to those who have turned against You and long to remove You from the throne of their lives and put themselves there instead. Amen



When We Last Left David…

2 Samuel 16-17

Then Absalom and all the leaders of Israel said, "Hushai's advice is better than Ahithophel's." For the LORD had arranged to defeat the counsel of Ahithophel, which really was the better plan, so that he could bring disaster upon Absalom! ­– 2 Samuel 17:14 NLT

When we last left David, he was on his way out of Jerusalem with his tail between his legs. He was a defeated man. His son had taken over his kingdom and he had fled. But as the Psalms we read reflect, David was still trusting in God. Even when confronted by an angry relative of Saul as he left Jerusalem, David didn't lash out – despite the fact that this guy was hurling abuse and stones in David's direction. "David said to Abishai and the other officers, 'My own son is trying to kill me. Shouldn't this relative of Saul have even more reason to do so? Leave him alone and let him curse, for the LORD has told him to do it. And perhaps the LORD will see that I am being wronged and will bless me because of these curses.'" (2 Samuel 16:11-12 NLT). David had full confidence that God was intimately involved in every detail of what was going on. God had told him this would happen because of his affair with Bathsheba. So David was content to take his problem to God and watch to see what He would do.

As we read these two chapters, it is important to look for the hand of God. He is working behind the scenes – ensuring that His will is done. He uses the presence of Hushai, David's confidant, to foil the advice of Ahithophel. He protected the lives of the two spies who were bringing news to David. He convinced Absalom and his men to accept Hushai's plan even though Ahithophel's was better. This was all the work of God. "For the LORD had arranged to defeat the counsel of Ahithophel, which really was the better plan, so that he could bring disaster upon Absalom!" (2 Samuel 17:14 NLT). Absalom had a huge army, he had the city of Jerusalem, and he had the throne of his father David. But what he didn't have was God. He was on his own. As long as David had God on his side, this was going to be a lopsided affair. It was Paul who said, "If God is for us, who can be against us?" (Romans 8:31 NIV). Do we believe that? If we have God on our side, do we believe that there is nothing or no one too great for us to endure? David did. This didn't mean he didn't have fears and doubts. Just read his Psalms. But he took them to God. He shared his feelings with the only one who could do anything about it – God. He was going to trust God with his life and his circumstances. Will we?

Father, I can get so focused on the circumstances of life, that I lose sight of You. I start to doubt Your presence and power. I start to try to solve my own problems. But David kept calling out to You. He gave You his fears. He turned to You when he was scared. He wanted to see You work in his life. May I develop that habit of searching for and seeing You in the daily affairs of my life. You are ALWAYS at work behind the scenes, even though I may not see it at first. Help me to trust You more. Amen



Roll Your Burdens On God.

Psalms 28; 55

Give your burdens to the LORD, and he will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall. ­– Psalms 55:22 NLT

These two Psalms were written by David, most likely when he was living in exile outside Jerusalem after his son, Absalom, had taken over the city and his throne. David finds himself living the life of a renegade again. He is on the outside, looking in, as his son rules in his place. He is the anointed king of Israel, appointed by God Himself, yet he is in hiding instead of reigning. David's days of despair and disappointment are far from over. These two Psalms graphically portray the sorrow he is experiencing. He even describes the pain of having been portrayed by a close friend. This is likely a reference to Ahithophel, his personal adviser, who was now working for Absalom. He best friend had turned on him along with his own son. So David knew what it was to suffer heartache and disappointment. He knew what it meant to live with fear and a sense of pending doom. He knew what it meant to have an uncertain future. And he also knew he could have two basic responses in times like these. One was to long for release by flight. "Oh, how I wish I had wings like a dove; then I would fly away and rest! I would fly far away to the quiet of the wilderness" (Psalms 55:6-7 NLT). He had thoughts of running away or simply escaping from all his troubles. This was more a wish than a plan. It was unrealistic, but it's what goes through our minds when faced with trouble and trials. David just longed to be somewhere else. But each morning when he woke up, he found himself in the same place faced with the same difficulties.

That's why David had another plan: To trust God. "I will call on God, and the LORD will rescue me. Morning, noon, and night I plead aloud in my distress, and the LORD hears my voice. He rescues me and keeps me safe from the battle waged against me, even though many still oppose me. God, who is king forever, will hear me" (Psalms 55:17-19 NLT). He couldn't escape his difficulty, so he decided to take his difficulties to God. And he was relentless in his pursuit of God – morning, noon, and night he plead. He couldn't run away, but he could run to God, and he did. Because he knew God was his only hope. And he knew God was a reliable, faithful source of hope. "The LORD is my strength, my shield from every danger. I trust in him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving" (Psalms 28:7 NLT). David knew that the result of trusting God was joy. God would not let him down. Times might be tough, but relief and release were on their way. God would answer. And David would rejoice.

Father, I can relate to David. When times get tough, I tend to catch myself wishing I could just get away. I want to run away and hide. Instead I need to learn to run to You. I need to pursue you doggedly and relentlessly until You answer. I need to turn to You and wait on You, because You are the only source for hope I have. Help me learn to use the times of difficulty in my life to drive me close to You, so that I might learn to trust You more. Amen



I Trust, Because…

Psalms 3-4; 12-13

But I trust in your unfailing love. I will rejoice because you have rescued me. I will sing to the LORD because he has been so good to me. ­– Psalms 13:5-6 NLT

David has had to sneak out of Jerusalem, because his son, Absalom, has turned the people against him and successfully pulled off a bloodless coup. This is the son who killed his own half-brother for raping his sister, Tamar. This is the son that should have been arrested, brought to justice, and given the death sentence. But instead, he was allowed to escape and live in exile for two years. This is the son who finally was allowed to return to the kingdom, but who David refused to see for another two years. This is the son that finally demanded an audience with the king, his own father, and when he finally got it, David acted as if nothing had ever happened. This is the son who turned his anger, bitterness and resentment against his father into action and took over his kingdom.

And rather than fight, David has decided to flee the kingdom. He was in mourning. He was a defeated man. His own son had turned against him. And in the midst of all this sorrow and despair, David did what any God-fearing man should do, he called out to God.

"Arise, O LORD! Rescue me, my God!" (Psalms 3:7 NLT)

"Answer me when I call, O God who declares me innocent. Take away my distress. Have mercy on me and hear my prayer" (Psalms 4:1 NLT)

"Help, O LORD, for the godly are fast disappearing! The faithful have vanished from the earth!" (Psalms 12:1 NLT)

"O LORD, how long will you forget me? Forever? How long will you look the other way?" (Psalms 13:1 NLT)

"Turn and answer me, O LORD my God! Restore the light to my eyes, or I will die" (Psalms 13:3 NLT)

David turned to God. He called out to God. He expressed his deepest feelings to God. Why? Because he knew God would hear him and answer him. He trusted in God's unfailing love. Yes, David had screwed up in a lot of ways. He had made some major mistakes. But God still loved him. God still counted David as one of His righteous ones. He was David's chosen and God was going to be faithful to keep His commitments to David. The key is that David kept turning to God. When he screwed up, he kept looking up. He knew the answer to his problem was going to come from one source and one source only. So David prayed honestly, yet confidently.

…you, O LORD, are a shield around me, my glory, and the one who lifts my head high (Psalms 3:3 NLT)

I cried out to the LORD, and he answered me from his holy mountain (Psalms 3:4 NLT)

I lay down and slept. I woke up in safety, for the LORD was watching over me (Psalms 3:5 NLT)

Victory comes from you, O LORD. May your blessings rest on your people (Psalms 3:8 NLT)

You can be sure of this: The LORD has set apart the godly for himself. The LORD will answer when I call to him (Psalms 4:3 NLT)

I will lie down in peace and sleep, for you alone, O LORD, will keep me safe (Psalms 4:8 NLT)

The LORD's promises are pure, like silver refined in a furnace, purified seven times over. Therefore, LORD, we know you will protect the oppressed, preserving them forever from this lying generation, even though the wicked strut about, and evil is praised throughout the land (Psalms 12:6-8 NLT)

But I trust in your unfailing love. I will rejoice because you have rescued me. I will sing to the LORD because he has been so good to me (Psalms 13:5-6 NLT)

David trusted God, because… because he knew Him to be trustworthy. He knew God was loving and faithful. He knew God cared for His own and would not leave them defenseless. He knew God hated the wicked and could see into the hearts of men. David loved God and wanted to do what was right. He had made mistakes, but His God was a forgiving God, a God who forgave and restored His own. So David prayed. And he waited…with confidence. He had been here before. He had played the part of the exiled king before. And God had come through. So David was confident God would do so again.

Father, I want to trust You like David did. In the midst of my worst moments, I want to be able to turn to You and honestly share my heart, but also to share my confidence that You will deliver – even before You have! May my faith continue to grow in You. May my confidence increase daily as I recognize Your faithful activity in my life. I will rejoice because You have rescued me! Amen



A Really Rebellious Child.

2 Samuel 14-15

Absalom stole the hearts of all the people of Israel. ­– 2 Samuel 15:6 NLT

The ramifications of David's sin with Bathsheba continue. Not only has David lost the child that Bathsheba was to give birth to, he has lost his son Amnon, who was killed by his brother Absalom for raping their sister Tamar. Then David banished his son Absalom from the kingdom and refused to deal with him for more than two years. He did not seek him out to punish him for murdering Amnon and he did not seek him out to offer amnesty. He did nothing. God had warned David that there would be consequences for his sin with Bathsheba. Among the things God had told David was the fact that he would experience rebellion in his own home. "Because of what you have done, I, the LORD, will cause your own household to rebel against you" (2 Samuel 12:11 NLT). Chapters 14 and 15 record the fulfillment of this prophecy from God.

Once again, we see David's inaction and seeming ineptitude to dealing with the problem of Absalom. Rather than take control of the situation, he let it fester. He allowed Absalom to languish in exile, making no attempt to remedy the matter. It wasn't until Joab attempted to pull a "Nathan the Prophet" plan that David was forced to take action. Using a woman disguised as a widow who told David a story about her two sons, Joab forces David to see the situation surrounding Absalom from a new perspective. He agrees to allow Absalom to return to Jerusalem, but then refuses to see him. So Absalom returns, only to find himself banished from the king's presence. Two more years will pass, with Absalom growing increasingly frustrated and angry over David's rejection of him. When he finally gets David to see him, it appears all is well, but Absalom has been poisoned by the treatment he has received. And he begins a methodical plan to take over his father's kingdom. He does it by slowly winning over the hearts of the people. He begins to undermine their trust in David. He becomes their friend and confidant. Driven by bitterness and anger against his dad, Absalom seeks revenge, and fulfills the warning that God had given David.

David is forced to flee from the city of God. When he hears that Absalom has solidified his standing with the people and successfully completed his coup attempt, David flees instead of fighting. He gives up. Rather than stand against Absalom, he does nothing again. He abandons the city. And while we could probably applaud David's seeming willingness to leave matters in God's hands, it seems sad that the king of Israel, God's chosen leader to protect the people of Israel and the city of God, would just walk away, leaving it all in the hands of a murderer and conspirator. Perhaps David is resigned to accept that this is all part of God's punishment of him for his sin with Bathsheba. But it is almost as if a melancholy still lingers in David since his sin was originally exposed. He does not appear to be the man we have come to know. His inaction is uncharacteristic. He is not the young man who took matters into his own hands and single-handedly took on the giant Goliath. Now, when faced with a difficulty, he seems to run. David's sin had compromised his decision-making abilities. He doesn't seem to know what to do. But rather than seek God's will, he seeks to leave – to run away. He abdicates his throne as easily as he had abdicated his responsibilities as a father. When the situation required decisiveness, he did nothing. His inaction had driven his own son to rebel against him. His unwillingness to deal with the matter had not made it go away, it just delayed the inevitable. His inaction had produced a negative reaction. The man after God's own heart had seemingly lost heart. So we find him leaving the city of Jerusalem in mourning, his tail between his legs. But things would get worse before they got better.

Father, forgive me for the times when I choose inaction over action. When I choose to do nothing instead of take responsibility and make the difficult decisions that need to be made. Give me the strength to stand up and be the man you've called me to be. While I always want to trust You, I know there are times I need to step up and do the right thing. Help me to do so. Show me how to deal with the Absaloms in my life biblically and decisively. Amen



Trouble In Camelot.

2 Samuel 13

When King David heard what had happened, he was very angry. ­– 2 Samuel 13:21 NLT

Camelot was the famous, yet fictional kingdom of King Arthur and his court. It has come to symbolize hope for the future and an idyllic setting in which the just and kind king rules over his subjects. And in many ways, David's reign has been cast in that light. If we are not careful, we can end up putting David on a pedestal and painting him as this perfect king who reigned wisely and flawlessly over the people of Israel. But there's only one problem with that picture: the Bible. The Word of God gives us a graphic and sometimes shocking view of David and his life. And 2 Samuel gives us a glimpse of David that is both sad and disappointing. It reveals the character flaws of this man of God and shows us that even a man after God's own heart can sometimes live his life in a way that is less-than-pleasing to God.

In this chapter, we read about events in the life of David and his family not long after the events of chapter 12 – where David had committed his sin with Bathsheba. If you recall, God had warned David that there would be consequences because of what he had done. Not only would he suffer personally, but so would his family.

"Why, then, have you despised the word of the LORD and done this horrible deed? For you have murdered Uriah and stolen his wife. From this time on, the sword will be a constant threat to your family, because you have despised me by taking Uriah’s wife to be your own. Because of what you have done, I, the LORD, will cause your own household to rebel against you. I will give your wives to another man, and he will go to bed with them in public view." – 2 Samuel 12:9-11 NLT

In this chapter we have the sad story of Amnon, Absalom and Tamar. Amnon is David's first-born son, born to David's wife, Ahinoam. Absalom was David's third-born son, born to his wife, Maacah. Tamar was Absalom's sister. Recorded for us is a startling, black and white picture of lust, rape, and murder – all within David's own household. Amnon lusted after his half-sister Tamar. In keeping with James 1, Amnon's lust was not satisfied to remain lust. It craved to be fulfilled. "Temptation comes from the lure of our own evil desires. These evil desires lead to evil actions, and evil actions lead to death" (James 1:14-15 NLT). Amnon's evil desires produced evil actions, which resulted in death – his own.

As bad as the rape or Tamar and the murder of Amnon were, the saddest part of this story is the inaction of David. Sure, he got angry over what Amnon did, but he did nothing about it. He took no action. The penalty for rape was death, but David did nothing to punish Amnon. So Absalom was forced to take matters into his own hands. To avenge the rape and degradation of his sister, he plotted and carried out the murder of Amnon. And once again, other than mourn the death of his son, David did nothing. Absalom fled and David did not pursue him. He allowed him to leave and did not seek to bring him back for punishment. Once again, the penalty for Absalom's actions should have been death. But David allowed him to escape and three years would go by before David would see his son Absalom again. David missed Absalom, but did not seek him out, either for punishment or restoration. He did nothing.

David's world had been rocked. He had lost the baby born to Bathsheba as a result of their affair. His daughter Tamar had lost her virginity at the hands of her lust-filled half-brother. Amnon had lost his life at the hands of his revenge-filled brother. And David had lost control over his family. Things were falling apart fast and were about to get even worse. Much of this was the fulfillment of God's words against David for his disobedience and disregard for God's law. But David complicated matters by refusing to act. While he scores high points as a military leader and king, David has a less-than-stellar track record as a father. Maybe he was too busy building a kingdom and fighting battles. Maybe he was spread too thin, with too many wives, too many kids, and too may responsibilities. Whatever the cause, David's inaction would result in continued heartache for himself, and confusion for his kingdom. When David needed to be strong, he was weak. When he needed to lead, he remained silent. When his family needed him most, he was nowhere to be found. Can this be said of some of us as dad's today? May God give us the strength to take our role as fathers seriously. May we lead our families with integrity and guide our homes with Spirit-filled wisdom. May inaction never be our only reaction.

Father, too often it is too easy to do nothing. When difficulties come into my family, I can either find myself with no reaction at all or overreacting – getting angry or sad, but not doing what really needs to be done. Give me the strength to be the father You have called me to be. Help me do what You have called me to do – to lead my family with integrity, wisdom, love, and strength.  Amen



Thankful For Worship.

Psalm 122

I was glad when they said to me, "Let us go to the house of the LORD." ­– Psalms 122:1 NLT

Today is Thanksgiving Day. It is the day we set aside as Americans to express thanks. But who are we to express thanks to? What are we thankful for? As we stuff our faces and fill up the hours with football, family, and friends, what will this day really mean to most of us, but just another holiday from work, school, and the usual responsibilities of life?

This Psalm, while short, is a perfect reminder of what we as Christians should be truly thankful for. In it, David expresses his joy at being able to worship God in Jerusalem. He was ecstatic about being able to go to the house of the Lord, the temple in Jerusalem, and offer sacrifices to God – along with every other faithful Jew. David was thankful for Jerusalem, this small, compact city where God had chosen to make His dwelling place among men. It was in Jerusalem that the sacrificial system, critical to the worship of God and the forgiveness of the sins of the people, was practiced. This one city was significant in maintaining their relationship with God. Sacrifices could not be offered anywhere else. God could not be met with anywhere else. So it's easy to see why David had such a love affair with Jerusalem. It was less about the city than it was about the God who chose to make Jerusalem his home.

So David prayed for Jerusalem. He had a vested interest in Jerusalem remaining free and unoccupied by enemy forces. He protected Jerusalem, because he did not want to think of a day when the worship of Yahweh would be eliminated due to war or the fall of the city of God. David said, "O Jerusalem, may there be peace within your walls and prosperity in your palaces. For the sake of my family and friends, I will say, 'Peace be with you.' For the sake of the house of the LORD our God, I will seek what is best for you, O Jerusalem" (Psalms 122:7-9 NLT).

Now we live in a time when the worship of God is not limited to a single place. It is not even limited to a house of God or a building dedicated to that sole purpose. We can worship God at any time, anywhere. We can seek forgiveness of sins moment by moment and don't have to wait until a specific date on the calendar to get right with God. Yet, are we guilty of taking our places of worship for granted? Do we not share David's enthusiasm for being able to worship God in communion with other saints. Has Sunday become more of a burden or just another thing to do on our busy calendars? Or is it a privilege and a blessing? Perhaps this Thanksgiving Day, we would be wise to express to God our gratitude for our church home. What an incredible privilege we have to be able to assemble together to worship God each weekend – without fear of persecution or reprisal. It is not that way all over the world. There are those who must worship in secrecy and silence. They fear for their lives. They have no church building or place of worship, other than a secluded spot somewhere in the woods at night. Their church is wherever two or more of them are gathered together.

We have many things to be grateful for this Thanksgiving. Is the place where we worship among them? Do we pray for our church? Do we ask God's protection over it? Do we see it as a place where God meets with us and where those who don't know Him can meet His Son? We must pray for churches all across the world. Not the buildings, but the people they represent. We must pray for the assemblies of believers all across this planet who meet together to worship God. Pray for their protection. Pray for peace. Pray that the presence of God would permeate their midst. And prayerfully thank God that He has chosen to meet with all of us – faithfully and mercifully – whenever and wherever we meet.

Father, thank You for the church where I get to worship You each week with other brothers and sisters in Christ. Thank You that I get to worship in peace and security, with no fear of government reprisal or attack. Thank You that I can meet with You there, each and every week. But thank You also that I can meet with You any time, anywhere. Because of what Christ accomplished on the cross, I can come into your presence 24/7, 365 days a year. May I never take that reality for granted. Amen



What I Need.

Psalm 86

But you, O Lord, are a merciful and gracious God, slow to get angry, full of unfailing love and truth. Look down and have mercy on me. Give strength to your servant; yes, save me, for I am your servant. ­– Psalms 86:15-16 NLT

This Psalm is titled, "A Prayer of David," but it could just as easily have been titled, "A Prayer of Ken." This prayer expresses my greatest need: For my God to hear my cry and answer me in His mercy and grace. David cries out, "Bend down, O LORD, and hear my prayer; answer me, for I need your help" (Psalms 86:1 NLT). He knew He was asking the God of the universe to lower Himself and interact with mere men, but he also knew that God would. He was counting on it. You see in this prayer David's understanding of the transcendence of God and the sinfulness of men. God is holy, righteous, and just. Man is sinful, unrighteous and incapable of earning the favor of God. Even as king of Israel, David knew his position when compared with God. He knew he was asking the creator-God to condescend and enter into his world to save him from his problems. Which is exactly what Jesus did when He took on human flesh and entered into our world to save us from our sin.

David looked to God for salvation, protection, mercy, happiness, life, forgiveness, mercy, love, wisdom, and even vengeance against his enemies. In other words, he looked to God for everything. His God was not some disembodied entity that was impossible to see and even harder to find. His God was great, awesome, majestic, mighty, and other-worldly, but also nearby, intimate, caring, attentive, loving, involved, responsive, and quick to answer his prayers. David was blown away that this great God would involve Himself in the daily affairs of his life. He had seen it happen before. And he knew it would happen again. So to NOT call out to God in times of need would have been ludicrous to David. It would have been idiotic to attempt to solve his own problems when he had God Almighty available to call upon. David said, "I will call to you whenever trouble strikes, and you will answer me" (Psalms 86:11 NLT). What confidence. What faith. He knew his God. He had seen Him work. He knew he could trust Him. So he did. Why don't we?

Father, maybe it's because I don't fully comprehend Your greatness that I don't call out to You more. I don't fully appreciate just how mighty, marvelous, and holy You are. I know it theoritically and academically, but I don't know it experientially. I have not recognized Your greatness in my own life. I have read about it in the lives of others, but I have failed to experience it first-hand. So instead of calling out to You, I try to solve all my own problems. And the outcome is always the same. Father, I want to learn to trust You more. I want to learn to call out to You and no one else. I want to learn to lean on You. I want to be able to say, "I will call to You whenever trouble strikes, and You will answer me!" And believe it. Amen



What God Wants.

Psalms 32; 51

You would not be pleased with sacrifices, or I would bring them. If I brought you a burnt offering, you would not accept it. The sacrifice you want is a broken spirit. A broken and repentant heart, O God, you will not despise. ­– Psalms 51:16-17 NLT

These two Psalms, written by David, have to do with the sins he committed during the whole Bathsheba affair. Not only had he committed adultery with Bathsheba, he tried to cover it up, then arranged to have her husband killed on the field of battle so that he could marry her. And it wasn't until Nathan the prophet exposed David's sin that he finally confessed it to God.

So these two Psalms reflect David's heart after he had finally confessed and received God's forgiveness. Keep in mind, both of these are songs, written to be sung by a choir. David is hanging out his dirty laundry for others to see. He is using his life experiences as a way to teach others of the grace, mercy, and forgiveness of God. These are not some trite worship songs with shallow lyrics and generic statements about God's goodness. They are the brutally honest cries of a man who had blown it in a big way, but who knew that his God was a forgiving God. So he called out to Him. He pleaded with Him for forgiveness, cleansing, and restoration. David knew what he deserved, but He appealed to the grace and mercy of God.

It would appear that Psalm 51 was written first. Here David cries for grace. He knows that his sin has been against God and no one else. He has offended a holy God and so he cries out for God to wash him and purify him. David wants a clean heart and a restored relationship with his God. His sin has broken the fellowship he once he enjoyed. David also knows that without a broken spirit, a broken and repentant heart, all the sacrifices in the world will mean nothing. God is looking for David to express true repentance and brokenness over his sin, not just remorse or sadness that he had been caught.

In Psalm 32, which is the sequel to Psalm 51, David writes of the relief and blessing that comes with forgiveness. Without it, David experienced guilt, shame, and even physical sickness. But as soon as he confessed it, God forgave him. David had learned from his mistake, and he was willing to teach others the lessons he had learned. To refuse to confess and repent is simply stubbornness. To live with the guilt and sorrow is stupidity, when God offers forgiveness and restoration. David had learned his lesson the hard way, and he wanted everyone to benefit from his mistake. "Many sorrows come to the wicked, but unfailing love surrounds those who trust the LORD. So rejoice in the LORD and be glad, all you who obey him! Shout for joy, all you whose hearts are pure!" (Psalms 32:10-11 NLT).

God wants two things: For us to have broken and repentant hearts when we sin that lead us to confess, and the pleasure of extending His grace, mercy and forgiveness to us when we do. God knows we are going to sin. But He has provided a way for us to enjoy a restored relationship, through the sacrifice that Jesus made on the cross. Forgiveness of sin is ours. Our sins were paid for on the cross. But we must still confess them when we commit them. We must still take ownership for them. Then God extends to us the forgiveness that Jesus paid for with His blood. "But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us and to cleanse us from every wrong" (1 John 1:9 NLT).

Father, may I want what You want. To confess my sins when I commit them and the forgiveness that comes when I do. Help me to learn from David that there is no reason to hang on to my sin in stubbornness, attempting to hide from it or ignore it. All it does is cause guilt and shame. It separates me from You. It robs me of joy. I want to be pure. I want to be clean. Open my eyes to the sin in my life so that I might confess it and be forgiven for it. Amen



Living A Lie.

1 Chronicles 20

Then David and his army returned to Jerusalem. ­– 1 Chronicles 20:3 NLT

1 Chronicles 20 parallels 2 Samuel 11, where we are told the story of David's sin with Bathsheba. Interestingly, both chapters start out the same way, "The following spring, the time of year when kings go to war…" But then they depart slightly. 2 Samuel goes on to say, "…David sent Joab and the Israelite army to destroy the Ammonites. In the process they laid siege to the city of Rabbah. But David stayed behind in Jerusalem." The book of 1 Chronicles says, "…Joab led the Israelite army in successful attacks against the towns and villages of the Ammonites." But in either case, David doesn't go into battle, but stays back in Jerusalem. At a time when kings should be going to war, David is sending and staying, not going. He sends Joab to do his dirty business, while he stays behind in Jerusalem. This decision would lead to his sin with Bathsheba and, ultimately, his murder of her husband Uriah.

But in 1 Chronicles, the writer leaves out what happened while David was back in the capital and concentrates on the victory over the Ammonites. If you just read this chapter alone, and not in association with chapter 11 of 2 Samuel, you would be lead to believe that this is just business as usual. David was sending out his troops and then going to meet them when the battle is over – just what good kings do. But when you know what David was up to while Joab and his men are busy fighting for David and the kingdom, it takes on a whole new light. And when you read that "David and his army returned to Jerusalem," it should kind of turn your stomach a little bit. Here is David, who has just committed adultery with Bathsheba, attempted to cover it up, and in desperation, had her husband killed by abandoning him in battle, leading his troops triumphantly back into town to the cheers of the people, as if he had been there all along. What hypocrisy!

What jumps out at me is how there is no mention of David doing anything in terms of fighting or doing battle with the enemy. Joab, Sibbecai, Elhannon, and Jonathan are all listed as men who led, fought and gained victory over the enemy. But David seems to take all the credit and more. "When David arrived at Rabbah, he removed the crown from the king's head, and it was placed on David's own head. The crown was made of gold and set with gems, and it weighed about seventy-five pounds. David took a vast amount of plunder from the city" (1 Chronicles, 20:2 NLT). When taken in conjunction with what we know from 2 Samuel 11, this paints an even grimmer picture of David. Not only has he committed adultery and murder, but he appears to be a glory hog. He wants to stay at home in the safety and luxury of his palace in Jerusalem, but bask in the glory of the victory that others have brought about. He wants to enjoy the benefits and blessings of victory without the risk.

I think this describes a lot of us as Christians. We want to enjoy the blessings of God without living lives of obedience. We want to stay in the safety and security of our everyday lives, and not step out into the world to do battle with the enemy. We want to enjoy the blessings of God, but refuse to obey Him in so many areas of our lives. We want ease and comfort when He has told us that this life will be a battle. We are at war. We live in a time of war. We have an enemy who is out to destroy us and the kingdom of God. But we want to live in peace and tranquility. But if any victories do take place, we want to somehow get credit for it. And victories ARE taking place, because God is faithful and there are those who are doing the will of God, risking their lives and doing battle with the enemy each and every day. The kingdom IS advancing, but are we playing our part? Or like David, do we simply show up in time to join in the victory parade? May we not be those who stay behind when there is a battle to be fought. May we take our role as soldiers of Christ seriously.

Father, there is work to be done, but too often we stay behind in the safety of our lifestyles, refusing to do what You have called us to do. We prefer our comfort over obedience. We don't want to risk anything. But You have called us to be a part of Your kingdom. You have placed us in the midst of an epic battle. And You have given us the tools necessary to fight successfully. May we do our part. May we fight the good fight. In Your power and according to Your will. Amen



A Man After God's Own Heart. Really?

2 Samuel 11-12

"Well, tell Joab not to be discouraged," David said. "The sword devours this one today and that one tomorrow! Fight harder next time, and conquer the city!" ­– 2 Samuel 11:25 NLT

Unbelievable! Wow! Incredible! I can't believe what I'm reading! Is this really David – the same David that killed Goliath, trusted God all those years he was running from Saul, wrote a huge percentage of the Psalms, and was referred to by God as a man after His own heart? Really?

These are two of the most sobering chapters in the word of God. They offer one of the clearest representations of the depravity of man and the deceitfulness of the human heart. Here is David, the king of Israel, handpicked by God Himself, and we get a ring side seat to one of the most dramatic falls from grace in history. And with each turn, the story just seems to get worse. It all started out innocently enough. David, who should have been at the battle front with his men, had decided to stay back in the palace. You might say he was in the right place but at the wrong time. Rather than be with his troops, David had chosen to stay home. And while taking a leisurely walk on the roof of the palace one afternoon, he spied a woman taking a bath on a neighboring roof. And his initial look quickly turned to lust. His lust turned into inquisitiveness. He wanted to know who she was and so sent a servant to get the details. You would have thought that when he discovered that Bathsheba was the wife of one of his soldiers, who was off at war, he would have come to his senses, taken a cold shower, and ended the whole thing right there. But instead, David sent for Bathsheba, committed adultery with her, and then began an elaborate, if not inept, attempt to cover up the whole "affair".

David's lust turned into action and, ultimately, resulted in the death of Bathsheba's husband. And David was responsible for it all. He had fallen far and hard. As the chosen king of Israel, he was not immune to temptation or sin. He had within him the whole time the capability of committing the most heinous of sins. In fact, I think David had an ongoing lust problem. He loved women. God had commanded that His kings not have multiple wives. "The king must not take many wives for himself, because they will lead him away from the LORD. And he must not accumulate vast amounts of wealth in silver and gold for himself" (Deuteronomy 17:17 NLT). David had at least eight wives and an assortment of concubines. You would think that this would have met David sexual demands, but it seems that he struggled with lust. When he saw Bathsheba, he had to have her. And he was willing to do anything to get her. Even if it meant having her husband killed.

What is really say is that David was trying to cover up his sin. It does not appear that he loved Bathsheba. He just did not want the truth out that Bathsheba's unborn baby was his! So he tried to concoct a plan to make it look like Uriah was the real father. But David's plan backfired at every step. He was left with only one option. Eliminate Uriah. At what point did this unbelievable and repulsive idea begin to sound viable to David? How could he bring himself to kill another man in order to cover up his own sin? And when he took Bathsheba as his wife after Uriah was killed, how could he live with himself? How could he stand to look at himself in the mirror? Somewhere along the way, David had learned to rationalize his behavior and excuse his conduct. After all, he was the Lord's anointed.

It wasn't until God sent Nathan the prophet to confront David that he finally confessed to his sin. Who knows how long David might have gone had not Nathan pointed out David's hypocrisy as he shouted, "You are that man! The LORD, the God of Israel, says, 'I anointed you king of Israel and saved you from the power of Saul. I gave you his house and his wives and the kingdoms of Israel and Judah. And if that had not been enough, I would have given you much, much more. Why, then, have you despised the word of the LORD and done this horrible deed? For you have murdered Uriah and stolen his wife.'" (2 Samuel 12:7-9 NLT). By doing what he did, David had shown contempt for the word of God. He had snubbed his nose at everything God had said regarding adultery and murder. He had taken all that God had given him and said, "It's not enough!, I want more!" Anytime we sin, we are doing the same thing. We are telling God that what He has given us is not enough. We are telling Him that we know what is best for us. Even if His Word denies it, we will go ahead and grab it. We tell ourselves that we deserve it. We've earned it.

David ultimately confessed his sin, and the amazing thing is that God completely forgave Him. "'I have sinned against the LORD.' Nathan replied, 'Yes, but the LORD has forgiven you, and you won't die for this sin'" (2 Samuel 12:9 NLT). There would be consequences for David's sin. He and Bathsheba would lose the child their affair had produced. David attempted to get God to spare the life of the child, but to no avail. And upon hearing that his child had died, David immediately turned to the Lord and worshiped. He returned to the one who offered him forgiveness in spite of his sin. He returned to the one who remained faithful in spite of David's unfaithfulness. And God would go on to give David and Bathsheba another son – Solomon. God's grace is indeed amazing. You see it all through this story. In the midst of our greatest failures, God extends grace, mercy, and forgiveness. David could do nothing to earn it or deserve. There was no way he could pay God back for what he had done. He had to rely fully on the forgiveness and faithfulness of God.

This story should give every one of us hope. We, like David, are fully capable of falling, but as God's chosen ones, we can never fall from His grace. His grace never runs out. He knows our weaknesses. He knows our failings and faults. He offers forgiveness. And all He asks in return is that we return – to Him. That we come back in repentance and dependence on Him – for His grace, mercy, and forgiveness. David would go on to accomplish great things for God. God would do great things through David. His sin did not disqualify him. It simply revealed who he was and what he was capable of when he stepped away from the protective presence of God.

Father, what a story. What a reminder. What a wonderful, gracious, and forgiving God You are. Thank you for this timely reminder. Amen



Calling On God.

Psalms 69-70

But may all who search for you be filled with joy and gladness. May those who love your salvation repeatedly shout, "God is great!" ­– Psalms 70:4 NLT

Who do you call on in times of need? When your world is caving in around you, where do you turn for help?

In our two Psalms today we hear the David calling out to God. He is going through a time of difficulty. These are essentially entries in his daily prayer journal, containing frank and honest declarations of just how he is feeling. He pulls no punches. He is painfully open about how he he feeling. And the amazing thing is, both of these are songs. They were intended to be sung. Why would David put these kinds of words to music? They make some country western songs sound downright upbeat! I think they are a reminder to us all that difficult days will come. We will face adversity in this life. Jesus even promised us that we would. So what do we do when the tough times come? We follow David's example. We call out to God. We tell Him how we are feeling. We express our emotions, openly and honestly to the only one who can do anything about it.

Look at the words David uses. He asks for God to save him. He cries out to God to rescue him. He confesses his sin. He describes his circumstances in all their gory details. And things don't appear to be changing. But he keeps calling out. "But I keep right on praying to you, LORD, hoping this is the time you will show me favor. In your unfailing love, O God, answer my prayer with your sure salvation" (Psalms 69:13 NLT). David doesn't give up just because God doesn't seem to show up. He keeps calling out because he knows that his only hope for salvation is his God. No one or nothing else can provide what he needs. Salvation and comfort will come only from the Lord. So he keeps crying out. "Answer my prayers, O LORD, for your unfailing love is wonderful. Turn and take care of me, for your mercy is so plentiful" (Psalms 69:16 NLT). And in spite of the seeming silence and delay of God, David is confident that He is going to act. He will rescue. "The humble will see their God at work and be glad. Let all who seek God's help live in joy" (Psalms 69:32 NLT).

Do you have that kind of confidence in God? Do you cry out to Him when times are tough? Do you keep calling on Him even when it appears as if He is not hearing you or answering? David trusted in God. He was confident that even the delays were part of God's sovereign plan for his life, so he was willing to wait. And when God answered, David was willing to give God all the praise. These two Psalms are songs of faith in God. They are honest reminders that life on this fallen planet can sometimes be hard. But our God is always faithful. Calling out to Him in times of difficulty is an expression of our faith. Trusting Him in the hard times is not easy. Trusting Him in the good times is. Our faith is best tested in the crucible of crisis. Do we trust Him? Then let us call out to Him. Let us turn to Him and no one else. If we believe He is our only hope, then we will call on Him religiously and relentlessly. Just as David did.

Father, I want to trust You more. I want my prayer life to reflect my faith in You. I want it to show that You truly are my only hope for salvation during times of difficulty. But I tend to reveal that I don't really believe You will rescue me. I turn elsewhere. I try to solve my own problems far too often. Give me the faith of David. May I sing of Your salvation, even in the midst of the trials of life. Amen



Bragging On God.

Psalms 65-67

Sing about the glory of his name! Tell the world how glorious he is. Say to God, "How awesome are your deeds!" ­– Psalms 66:2-3 NLT

How great is your God? How much do you brag about Him? When was the last time you just had to tell someone else what God has done for you?

In these three Psalms, we have a virtual love-fest where the attributes and actions of God are shouted from the roof tops. Whether it's His forgiveness, answers to prayers, creative power, abundant provision, past miracles, present protection, or attentive ear; there is much for the Psalmists to brag about when it comes to God. And he just can't keep silent. He has to tell the world just how glorious and great his God is. His God has a history of greatness and goodness. His God is compassionate and caring. His God is powerful and yet, at the same time, merciful.

He sacrifices to God, not out of some sense of duty, but out of delight. After all God has done for him, it is the least he could do for God. And he gives God his very best. He wants anyone and everyone to know about the greatness of God. And he wantsto hear others talk about the greatness of God, too. "Say to God, 'How awesome are your deeds!'" (Psalms 66:3 NLT). He is reminding everyone he knows, Israelite and non-Israelite, that God is responsible for the world in which they live, the blessings of nature they enjoy, any abundance they may experience, or any periods of peace they may benefit from. God is responsible for it all. And as His people, we also get to enjoy His forgiveness, mercy, and abundant grace. We of all people have a lot to shout about. But sometimes we remain silent, only speaking up to utter a complaint or an poorly aimed finger of accusation against God for what we believe to be His silence, undeserved punishment, or poor timing.

Maybe if we thought more about God's awesome deeds, we would recognize them when they come. Maybe if we were more thankful for what He has done, we would be more grateful and expectant for what He is going to do. If our God is great, and He is, why don't we brag about Him more? Why don't we sing His praises, even outside the context of a worship service on a Sunday morning? May we say along with the Psalmist, "Come and listen, all you who fear God, and I will tell you what he did for me." (Psalm 66:16 NLT).

Father, You are a great God and greatly to be praised. I apologize for the many times I have spent complaining instead of proclaimingYour greatness and goodness. I have much to praise You for. Help me to see it, shout it, and give You glory for it. Amen



Boast All You Want.

1 Chronicles 19; Psalm 20

Some nations boast of their armies and weapons, but we boast in the LORD our God. Those nations will fall down and collapse, but we will rise up and stand firm. ­– Psalms 20:7-8 NLT

The New King James version translates these verses this way: "Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; But we will remember the name of the LORD our God" (Psalms 20:7-8). To remember the name of the Lord is to invoke His name in prayer. To pray to Him is to place your trust in Him. That is what this Psalm is all about. In the midst of the battles David was going to face, like the one described in 1 Chronicles that he fought against the Ammonites, David sought the Lord. He remembered who God was and all that He had done for him over the years. He remembered God's power and His promises. He remembered God's deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt. He remembered God's guidance and direction as they navigated the wilderness on their way to the Promised Land. He remembered God's involvement in the victory at Jericho.

Rather than put his trust in armies, chariots, horses, physical resources, or human might, David and his people would take their chances with God. David had had experience with bad odds and lopsided victories. He had taken on Goliath as a young man and won. He had survived against Saul's hired mercenaries, who hunted David down day and night. David had seen the people of God win battles against the Philistines and other enemies when they were outnumbered and under-equipped. Chariots and horses were no match for the power of God. Just ask Pharaoh.

God is the key to victory and to survival in a harsh, violent world. We live in difficult days, just as David did. We have a real enemy who wishes nothing more than our ultimate destruction. And because he is not flesh and blood, our battle with him cannot depend on our strength or our own resources. We need God's help. We need to remember God when faced with difficulties. Rather than boast in our own abilities, we need to boast in Him. Like the people of Israel, we need to pray, "In times of trouble, may the LORD respond to your cry. May the God of Israel keep you safe from all harm. May he send you help from his sanctuary and strengthen you from Jerusalem" (Psalms 20:1-2 NLT).

What are you putting your trust in today? Where is the first place you turn when times get tough? David turned to the Lord. He put His trust in God.

Father, when will I ever learn to trust You? You have never given me reason not to. You have never failed me or let me down. I have seen You step in and deliver me time and time again, but I have short-term memory loss. I forget. And when I face difficulties I begin to put my trust elsewhere. I begin to turn to other places for help. I look for the chariots and horses in my life. Forgive me. Help me to remember You and all that You have done. Only You can truly deliver. Amen