FORGIVEN PART 3

In King David’s life, the repercussions of sinful actions and their lasting impact on the house of the Lord are made clear.

Matthew 1:1 introduces Jesus as “the son of David,” emphasizing the significance of David’s lineage in the lineage of the Messiah. However, 2 Samuel 12 reminds us that although God has forgiven our sins, they still cause damage to the house of the Lord.

Recognizing that our actions as Christians can give the world ammunition to criticize the church is crucial. What we might perceive as blessings, God may refer to as “its” (2 Samuel 12:15). Our disobedience can produce “its” in our lives—consequences and stumbling blocks that hinder our spiritual growth.

One key question is, “What voices are we listening to?” Are we heeding the voice of God, or do the world’s standards and desires influence us? To truly experience forgiveness and restoration, we must rid our lives of the “its” we have produced through double-minded living.

In our journey toward forgiveness and reconciliation with God, we must acknowledge the damage our sins cause in our lives and within the broader community of believers. We should seek to remove the stumbling blocks we have created so that we may walk in the fullness of God’s grace.

Ultimately, the story of David teaches us that forgiveness is available, but it doesn’t erase the consequences of our actions. As we strive to live a life pleasing to God, let us be vigilant in recognizing and addressing the “its” in our lives, striving for a pure and sincere faith that glorifies Jesus.