Read

1 Chronicles 20:1
2 Samuel 11:1-27
2 Samuel 12:15-25
2 Samuel 5:14-16
1 Chronicles 14:3-7
1 Chronicles 3:5-9

Think

2 Samuel 12:12, "You did It secretly, but I will make this happen to you openly in the sight of all Israel."

"A man after God's own heart." This was once how God Himself described David, the giant-slayer - His chosen king of Israel. But, David's story took a hard turn the day he went from being "a man after God's heart" to a man chasing after his own heart's desires.

Watching from his palace roof, David gave in to his lust for Bathsheba, the beautiful wife of his military commander, as he saw her bathing. This led him to commit adultery and murder - two events that cascaded into a slippery slope of sin that would impact him for the rest of his life.

How could this seasoned warrior have been so weak? David found himself in a vulnerable position. He was supposed to be out with his men in battle, but instead, he remained behind. He was supposed to be leading Israel, but instead, he was pacing the rooftop of his palace. He was supposed to be in bed, but instead, he found himself staring at what was forbidden. David was supposed to be a man after God's own heart, but instead, he found himself in a vulnerable position that led him to disobey the Lord.

Have you ever found yourself in a vulnerable position, doing something you knew God didn't want you to do? What did it lead to as God gave you an out "but instead" you...

Maybe you think, "No one will ever know." But God does! Nothing escapes His sight, and yet He still has an unfailing love for you. If there is a sin in your life that has gone unchecked, give it to God. Surround yourself with people who will encourage you to follow after God. Right now, choose to obey God's commands – commands that He's given you for your protection. Only then will you experience the life of purpose, peace, and utter joy that comes from seeking God's heart!

Pray

Dear God, Thank You for Your unfailing love. Give me the wisdom and strength to stay out of vulnerable positions and help me recognize those in my life who can hold me accountable. I want to walk in Your will, to live our Your best. Amen.