APRIL 12, 2 Samuel 12:1-10

God was clearly displeased with David. David had done a list of shameful things: taking another man’s wife, murdering him, and sinning against the Lord who loved and blessed him. As a king, how was he going to guide his people and nation in spiritual leadership?

God sent Nathan the prophet to confront David about his sin. Nathan was wise to use a parable about a poor man’s only lamb being taken by a rich man to serve it to his guests. Immediately, David saw the injustice of it and said, “As the Lord lived, the man that hath done this thing shall surely die, and he shall restore the lamb fourfold.” When Nathan replied, “Thou art the man”, David must have been shocked! Surely he stole no one’s lamb. Then the reality of his sin hit David and he realised he had sinned against the Lord. But God in his great mercy to David, spared his life but David had to pay fourfold, as he himself said should be the penalty of the rich man. How could he pay fourfold for the death of Uriah? Four of his sons will have to die for the one death of Uriah.

                        In the speech bubble, summarize in your own words what Nathan said to the king, using verses 7, 9 and 10.

Thought: Punishment always follows sin.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, may I guard against sinning because punishment will also be reserved for those who sin. Instead, let me walk closely with thee. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.