Deceptive or Deceived?

First, take a moment and read 2 Samuel 11 & 12. Yes, 2 whole chapters of the Bible. It will take you about 6-7 minutes. Yes, it’s worth it. Then read on.

From his youth, King David was a committed follower of God. He believed in God’s ways enough that he even took out the giant, Goliath. Yet there was a time when this devoted believer gave in to temptation and committed adultery with Uriah's wife. His walk of integrity was severely compromised. What would happen next? How would David respond to God’s conviction on him?

Ethical and moral failings have set back Christians throughout the ages. We see it a lot today. I don’t know if I’m more sensitive to it today than I was a few years ago, or if it’s just striking closer to home with the people in my church and friends that I’ve had for years. There are many factors that drive people to sin. When a believer decides to do whatever it takes to obtain something he wants (ie. Stuff, a girlfriend/mate, recognition, acceptance by the world) then selfishness or greed is the root cause. At other times the desire for acceptance can tempt us to manipulate people and circumstances—or fabricate lies in order to make ourselves seem more desirable. And fear of conflict can result in compromised standards; many people try to fit in so they can avoid arguments. Compromise seems to be a common factor. Lower God’s standards to fit my life. There, now that’s better for me.

At first, even those close to us may not notice our deception in this. But God always sees. He will use our conscience to produce guilty feelings so we might confess our sin and turn from it. Self-protection will take over if we continue in unrighteousness—we will try to quiet our conscience by justifying the behavior. We begin making excuses for what we’ve done. Over time, we will draw away from certain people so they won't discover our ungodly behavior. By keeping them at a distance, we hope to avoid their scrutiny. Habitual sin may result in lost job opportunities, damaged friendships, broken families, and ultimately, a route away from God. No matter what the situation, when you veer from God’s ways, it leads nowhere good.

When confronted by Nathan, David recognized his sin, acknowledged it, and received forgiveness (2 Sam. 12:13). Here’s where the rubber meets the road now. How do you respond when the Holy Spirit convicts you of ungodliness? Do you see the reality of your behavior and repent? Or do you try to justify it and persist in your conduct? Now, think of how this applies to you personally…and to others you love. Do you need to share this with someone? It might just be the most loving thing you can do.