Fresh Start Devotionals

Accountability King David was a man of great contradictions. He was a hard working man who was equally comfortable playing a musical instrument or fighting in a war. He was a tender-hearted poet, with musical talents that could soothe the souls of his listeners. He was a “man after God’s own heart”—a spiritual man. Don’t think that David was a softie. He was a warrior without peer. The people said of him: “Saul has killed his thousands, but David his ten thousands.” Even the smallest child in our Sunday School could tell the story of David defeating the giant Goliath. David was a strong man—a leader of men, a man that anyone would feel safe walking beside. David was a spiritual man who penned many beautiful psalms that were sung in his day and read in our day. Yet, David had a severe moral lapse. It was the time of year when Kings lead their troops to war, but David was no where to be found. Instead of assuming his leadership role, he lingered around the palace. While walking around the palace roof, he spotted a beautiful woman taking a bath. Instead of turning his head and walking away, he stayed and watched. Later, he sent for her and consummated his sin with her in the palace. She became pregnant. His sin found him out. He tried to cover up his sin, but to no avail. Ultimately, his sin lead to murder. His sin began with him being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Why wasn’t he at work where he belonged? Why didn’t he run when he was tempted? Why didn’t he show self control and remain righteous. This sin became a defining moment in his life. It is too bad that he didn’t finish as strong as he started. He could defeat countless Philistines in battle, but was overcome by the seduction of a single woman. What safe guards are to taking to assure that you remain faithful to God? Are you accountable to anyone? What are you doing to make sure you are not in the wrong place at the wrong time? Jim L. Wilson, Fresh Start Devotionals (Fresno, CA: Willow City Press, 2009).