Day 117

2 Samuel 12:26-14:33; 1Chronicles 20:2-3. “Real Consequences”

“Don’t be deceived, God cannot be mocked.  A man reaps what he sows” (Galatians 6:7).
David loved the Lord, but he also made his share of mistakes.  Even though he was quick to confess his sin, that did not remove the consequences for his sin (2 Samuel 12:14).
Now, from this point on, David’s kingship takes a downhill turn especially within his family.  As is apparent from today’s reading, David was no longer in control of his sons and had failed to instill in them a fear of the Lord.  David’s mistakes were catching up to him, not just his sin with Bathsheba, but other sins related to fathering and mentoring his sons were having an impact now.  
Sin has real consequences.  While we cannot blame our sin for everything in life, much of the pain and grief we experience results from our own sinful choices and actions.  Are you living with the consequences of past sin?  Pray and ask God for strength and wisdom to deal with those consequences appropriately.

General Questions for each day:
Summarize the day’s Bible passage in your own words.
What thoughts, actions, attitudes or beliefs are addressed in the passage?
How is the Holy Spirit leading you to apply this passage to your life today?