Irresistible?

2 Late one afternoon, after his midday rest, David got out of bed and was walking on the roof of the palace. As he looked out over the city, he noticed a woman of unusual beauty taking a bath. 3He sent someone to find out who she was, and he was told, “She is Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam and the wife of Uriah the Hittite.” 4 Then David sent messengers to get her; and when she came to the palace, he slept with her. . . .Then she returned home. 5 Later, when Bathsheba discovered that she was pregnant, she sent David a message, saying, “I’m pregnant.”2 Samuel 11:2-5

Temptations seldom appear as ugly or dangerous as they really are. Think of it from a fish’s perspective, or from that of a mouse approaching a trap. They bite the worm and pounce on the cheese that seem so good and harmless—until they have done their damage. People do the same.

This is the tragic story of David and Bathsheba. David sees her (the “bait”), makes a choice, and he’s “hooked.” The results are devastating to David, to Bathsheba, to Uriah, and to the nation. As you read this passage, ask yourself, What could David have done to prevent this?

This story also teaches the futility of trying to cover up a sin; the importance of correcting a friend; and the best way to respond when you get caught.

As David looked from the roof of the palace, he saw a beautiful woman bathing (2 Samuel 11:2-4). He didn’t see a dangerous situation that could damage the rest of his life. As his heart filled with lust, he pushed aside the cautions that must have filled his head and asked about Bathsheba. David should have left the roof and fled the temptation; instead, he entertained it. As a result, David succumbed to temptation and committed adultery and murder.

To escape temptation, (1) ask God to help you stay away from people, places, and situations that may strongly tempt you. (2) Memorize and meditate on portions of Scripture that combat your specific weaknesses. At the root of most temptation is a real need or desire that God can fill, but we must trust in his timing. (3) Find another believer with whom you can openly share your struggles, and call this person for help when temptation strikes.

When tempted, move away from the temptation and toward a good place or safe activity. Fight the temptation; don’t just stay there and look into the possibilities.

This is an excerpt from: The One Year Through the Bible