Do What You’re Supposed To Do…

2 Samuel 11 begins by saying “At the time when kings usually go for war…” In ancient times it was during spring season that kings generally plan their battles. It is too hot in summer and too cold in winter. But during spring the weather is always pleasant and with abundant supply of water. The soldiers wouldn’t want to carry extra clothing or water to manage the battle. So even if there was a need for a battle during summer or winter, wise kings schedule it during spring time.

David is considered to be one of the greatest kings in the Bible as well as history. His accomplishments out numbered those that of the other famous kings ever known. He always consulted God for his proceedings and God had a personal relationship with this great king and guided him all through. His initial life wasn’t that great though. He started as a shepherd running after his sheep risking his own life, wrestling with wild animals. He was the youngest in the family and was always bullied and ridiculed. He was considered immature and childish. A break-through happened when he went forward and killed Goliath and saved the Israelites from the Philistines. But right then he earned Saul’s jealousy and ran around to save his own life hiding in caves and forests. To summarize, it took him a while to settle as King. But once he firmly established his kingdom, it was time for David to recline after all the hardships he endured.

It was during such a time that he decided to take a break and hang around. So even though it was the usual time for war he still remained at the palace sending his subordinates for the battle. Verse 2 says, “In the evening time David arose off from his bed and walked on the roof”. Surprising isn’t? David was supposed to be fighting a battle but lingered. And now after sleeping all day long got up from his bed, not knowing what to do, started to stroll on the roof top. There is a proverb that says “An idle man’s mind is devil’s workshop”. When you don’t do what you’re supposed to do, you will end up seeing a bathing Bathsheba! That’s the rule.

It was no different for David. His lethargy resulted in eying at another man’s wife. It’s surprising to know how a great king like David who had a great relationship with God, could willfully sin at first sight. He decided to get her on bed and further reading would reveal how a small thought in his mind blew up to two great sins, adultery and murder. The next chapter begins by saying “And the Lord sent Nathan unto David”. Remember God usually dealt with David personally and did not require a prophet to talk with David. When David drifted away and isolated himself from God, He had to use a third person to reach David. All because of his decision “Not to do what he was supposed to do as a King”

Today, you may be a student, a software professional, a minister of God, a responsible parent etc. Always remember, do what you are supposed to do in your state. If you miss the mark you would surely end up with a bathing Bathsheba and ultimately isolating yourself from God. If you are student, do your best to study well. If you are software professional, do your best to meet your deadlines and go that extra-mile in your performance. If you are a minister of God, keep going forward in your ministry and so on … Take a decision to understand your responsibilities, to keep working towards those and not to waver. God always honors genuine desires and would certainly second your initiatives. It’s really a joy to hold God’s hand and keep doing His will. Try it and you’ll never know how awesome it feels!

Lord Jesus, help me to do what I am supposed to do and not to waver from your path. Help me to know my responsibilities and concentrate on them so that I do not end up in sin. Amen