One of the saddest sections of scripture is 2 Sam. 15-16. In those chapters we see the fulfillment of God’s punishment for David’s sin. In chapter 12 it says,

“This is what the LORD says: Because of what you have done, I will cause your own household to rebel against you. I will give your wives to another man before your very eyes, and he will go to bed with them in public view. You did it secretly, but I will make this happen to you openly in the sight of all Israel.”

David is betrayed by his son Absalom when he established himself as the king of Israel instead of his dad and then took David’s wives publicly to show that a transition in power had taken place. In this section we see David, a broken man leaving his palace in tears and fleeing for his life from his own son. What a mess his sin has caused for himself, his family, his reign and the nation of Israel! And yet, when sin presents itself to us, it hides the consequences of our actions. If we could see the consequences our choices may be different.

In addition to the betrayal of Absalom, David’s most trusted advisor also sided with Absalom. This is most likely the person David was referring to in Ps. 49:9 which says,

“Even my close friend in whom I trusted, who ate my bread, has lifted his heel against me.”

In many ways, this is about as bad as it can get for David. The pain of experiencing such betrayal is almost unbearable. Ps. 49:9 happens to also be the same passage Jesus quoted at his betrayal by Judas in Jn. 13:18! David experienced betrayal for his sin while Jesus experienced betrayal for our sin!

Sin can have consequences that even confession cannot alter. David had confessed his sin to God, but that did not stop the discipline he had to experience for his disobedience. This reminder should also make us think of Heb 12:5-6,

“And have you forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons? ‘My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor be weary when reproved by him. For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.’”

Father, I cannot imagine the pain David and Jesus experienced when they were betrayed. I see in the story of David that sin has consequences and you discipline your sons and daughters as any loving father would. I also cannot fully understand the depth of your love for me because you allowed your son to be betrayed and punished for my sin. Thank you for loving me as you do. Help me to see sin for what it is so that I can choose obedience out of love for you.

Following Jesus with you,

Jeff