Jesus' Spicy Grannies Devotions: Bathsheba

Bathsheba's story has taken many perspectives. Some people have made it a love story, others have considered hers an ancient #metoo saga. I tend to lean to that side of things. The authority of kings in David's day lends us to consider that Bathsheba had little say-so on how he treated her. 

But, God--who is great in mercy redeemed their story and allowed this sordid chapter to stay in the book of His own. I love that about God! He never covers up the embarrassing chapters. In fact, He exposes them so that He can illustrate the depth of His love and the extent of His mercy and grace.

Take a deep dive into Bathsheba's story this week. These devotions accompany my podcast series, Jesus' Spicy Grannies

The story of Bathsheba, King David's wife, spans several chapters in the Bible, primarily in the books of 2 Samuel and 1 Kings, with significant references in Psalms. Here are five daily Bible readings that will take you through the key moments in Bathsheba's story:

Day 1: 2 Samuel 11:1-5 – The Sin of David

This passage introduces the pivotal moment when King David, while staying in Jerusalem, sees Bathsheba bathing and becomes infatuated with her. He sends for her, and they have an affair, which results in her pregnancy. This is the beginning of the chain of events that will lead to tragedy for David, Bathsheba, and others.

• Key Reflection: Consider how temptation and unchecked desires can lead to sin and consequences.

Day 2: 2 Samuel 11:6-13 – David's Attempt to Cover Up

David tries to cover up the affair by summoning Bathsheba's husband, Uriah, back from the battlefield in an attempt to make him believe the child is his. However, Uriah is too honorable to go home while his comrades are at war, so David's plan fails.

• Key Reflection: Reflect on the lengths people go to hide their sins and the contrast between David’s actions and Uriah's integrity.

Day 3: 2 Samuel 11:14-27 – The Murder of Uriah

David orchestrates the death of Uriah by placing him at the frontlines of battle, ensuring he is killed. Bathsheba mourns her husband's death, but once the mourning period is over, David brings her into his house, and she becomes his wife.

• Key Reflection: Think about how sin compounds upon itself, leading to even greater wrongs, and the consequences of David’s actions on his kingdom.

Day 4: 2 Samuel 12:1-15 – The Prophet Nathan Confronts David

God sends the prophet Nathan to confront David about his sin. Through a parable, Nathan exposes David's wrongdoing, and David acknowledges his guilt. Nathan pronounces God's judgment: the child Bathsheba is carrying will die, but David's repentance is noted.

• Key Reflection: Reflect on the nature of repentance and the mercy of God in forgiving those who truly repent, even in the face of consequences.

Day 5: 2 Samuel 12:24-25 – The Birth of Solomon

After the death of their first child, Bathsheba bears another son, Solomon, who will go on to become the king of Israel. God loves Solomon and sends a message through Nathan, promising that Solomon will be the one to succeed David on the throne.

• Key Reflection: Consider how God can bring redemption and blessing even out of difficult and painful circumstances. Solomon’s birth marks a new chapter for Bathsheba, David, and Israel.

This reading plan covers the key moments in Bathsheba's story and provides a framework for reflecting on themes of sin, repentance, judgment, and God's grace. It also sets the stage for understanding the legacy of Bathsheba’s son Solomon, whose reign brought prosperity to Israel.