November 20, 2019

In this chapter we see the true consequence of sin. David, a man after God’s own heart, learned the hard way that we cannot sin in secret, for God will not only expose what is done in the dark with His light but also that there are always consequences for sin. David greatly sinned but he also greatly repented. When Nathan the prophet called out his sin he knew he was wrong and cried out to the Lord in pleading for mercy and repentance (Psalm 51) while knowing that he will still suffer consequences for the sin as Nathan had prophesied would happen to the illegitimate child from David’s affair and deceit. 

This didn’t change David’s pain and pleading before God to change this consequence from happening. He grieved, fasted and mourned over the child, knowing he was forgiven and restored before the Lord but not knowing if it will change the effects of his sin on earth. But God wanted to remind him, and us, that although we can be forgiven and restored from the most grievous sin, we can still suffer the consequences of such sins here on earth and as Romans 6:23 says, the ultimate consequence or wages of sin is death as we read about in yesterday’s Jumpstart. 

Jesus took that death upon Himself and when repenting of sin and having faith in Christ, we don’t have to eternally suffer the consequence ourselves, but it doesn’t mean others are not still affected by such sins as Christians who continually sin. 

Let this serve as a reminder of our actions moving forward in our faith for not only our sake but others around us as well.

By: Erik Koliser — West Campus Pastor