David’s Punishment And Conquests

II Samuel 12:15–31
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In this section we find David’s response to his son’s sickness and death. After Nathan left David, God allowed sickness to come to the child born to he and Bathsheba (vv. 15-16). We do not know what the sickness was but we know that after seven days the child died (vv. 17-18). David had mourned when Saul and Jonathan died in battle (II Sam. 1), and when Abner was killed by Joab (II Sam. 3). David has done intense fasting and praying that the Child might live but when he found out it was dead he ceased his mourning. He washed up, worshiped and began to eat, which was contrary to customs and much to the amazement of his servants (vv. 19-20). David said, “While the child was still alive, I fasted and wept, but now that he is dead, why should I fast? Can I bring him back again? Then David’s faith soared when he stated: “I shall go to him, but he will not return to me.” The statement suggests a belief in infant salvation and immortality (vv. 21-23). David felt certain that the little baby was saved. He said, “I will go to him someday.” He knew that when death came to him, he would be reunited with his son. That was not the case when his son Absalom died many years later. Absalom was a heartbreak to David because he was not sure he was saved.

David comforted Bathsheba over the loss of their son. Eventually she become pregnant a second time by David. The son who was born was named Solomon. Now God loved this child. He sent the prophet Nathan to bestow on the infant a special name: Jedidiah, “beloved of God.” (vv. 24-25).

This tragic episode began with David pampering himself at home, but it ends with him taking his rightful place on the battlefield and leading the nation to an important victory. It is encouraging to see that God was willing to use David again in spite of his sins. He had confessed his sins; God had forgiven him; now he could fight for the Lord again. It is bad for believers to sin; it is also bad for them to live in the past and think themselves useless even after they have confessed their sins. Satan loves to shackle God’s people with memories of sins that God has already forgiven and forgotten. Satan is the accuser (vv. 26-31).

Application

In order to feel forgiven and experience comfort as David did I just need to admit my sins to God and turn to Him. Then I can move ahead with a new and fresh approach to life.