After his violation of Bathsheba, King David finally got honest and confessed his sin to Nathan the prophet. ‘Nathan said to David, “The LORD also has put away your sin; you shall not die. However…by this deed you have given great occasion to the enemies of the LORD to blaspheme”’ (2 Samuel 12:13-14 KJV). Later, David would write in the Psalms: ‘Deliver me from all my transgressions; make me not the reproach of the foolish.’ Let’s take a moment and consider the ‘downside’ of immorality when it is found out: 1) Your partner experiences shame, rejection, betrayal, and heartache. No amount of repentance or asking forgiveness can soften the blow. Suspicion replaces trust. 2) The innocence and trust of your children are dealt a devastating blow. Their healthy outlook on life is likely to be severely damaged. 3) The heartache experienced by your parents, family, and peers is indescribable. And you are likely to be embarrassed in facing other Christians, especially those who have openly appreciated, respected, and trusted you. 4) Your fall may be perceived by others as a licence for them to do the same. 5) Your inner peace will be gone. 6) Your confidence before God will be forfeited. 7) Your enemies will have further reason to jeer and sneer, and the cause you represent will suffer harm. What a high price to pay. What’s the answer? Be filled and stay filled with the Holy Spirit. Here’s why: ‘The fruit of the Spirit is…self-control’ (Galatians 5:22-23 NKJV).

© 2024. Written by Bob and Debby Gass. Used by permission under licence from UCB International.