The Prophet is Necessary

David was a man after God’s own heart, yet even he fell into grievous sin. What began with a lingering look at Bathsheba ended in adultery, deception, and the arranged death of her husband, Uriah, on the frontlines of battle. Though David thought his sin was hidden, Scripture reminds us otherwise: “The eyes of the Lord are everywhere, keeping watch on the wicked and the good” (Proverbs 15:3). Ironically, it was David’s own son Solomon who penned those proverbial words…the same one who would later be born of David and Bathsheba.

God sent Nathan the prophet to confront King David. Nathan did not confront him with accusations outright. Instead, he told a story.

He spoke of a rich man who had many sheep and a poor man who owned only one little lamb—a lamb he loved and cared for like a child. When a traveler came to the rich man, he took the poor man’s lamb and slaughtered it to feed his guest. David burned with anger at this story and demanded justice for the poor man. Then Nathan delivered the bold words that shattered David’s self-righteousness: “You are the man who slew the lamb.” Nathan went on to detail the exact sins committed and the judgment that God would bring. (2 Samuel 12)

In that moment, David saw his own wickedness and sin clearly. God often uses others to expose what we try to conceal—not to shame us to death, but to lead us to repentance. It takes a bold prophet to speak truth, and it takes a humble heart to receive it.

David’s response is what sets him apart. He did not excuse himself or grow defensive. He simply confessed, “I have sinned against the Lord.” (We should all be so honest.)

Psalm 51 captures the depth of his repentance—a broken and contrite heart crying out for mercy and renewal. It is a psalm many of us return to when God exposes our own sin. It is one I have often quoted myself when the Holy Spirit convicts me of sin.

We live in a world full of pride, justification, and indifference toward sin. It is a rare soul who can be called out and still respond with humility. May we learn from David. When God highlights our transgressions—however He chooses to do it—may we bow low, repent quickly, and welcome the grace that follows obedience.