This continues the story we read last week. After having her husband killed to cover up his transgression, David once again takes Bathsheba, indicating his belief that his plot has been successful. But then in walks his trusted advisor and spokesperson for the Lord, Nathan. Using a very clever ploy, Nathan forces David to see the injustice of what he has done and to face the reality of the devastation he has caused.
This tells us that despite everything, there is still a shred of morality and goodness within David. Because of his level of power, he could easily have had Nathan killed for calling him out like that, but he didn’t. Maybe it was a relief to finally shed some light on the darkness of private shame. Maybe it was a reminder that God had better intentions for his life. Maybe there was a level of comfort knowing that there was someone to hold him accountable and to encourage him to be his best self. No matter the reason, David admits his guilt.
Do you have someone in your life that can call you out when you’re behaving badly? When they do, how do you react? Do you listen openly or do you become defensive and try to deflect the blame? What role does trust have in a mutually accountable relationship?
Today, consider asking someone you trust to work with you on developing a relationship around mutual accountability.
