“But now he is dead, wherefore should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me” (2 Samuel 12:23).
In today’s verse we see the anguish of David as he faced one of the most painful experiences a parent can encounter. David fasted and prayed that his very sick son would get well. Nathan was right. His child was going to die. I can only imagine the heartbreak, not only David, but Bathsheba endured. I think Bathsheba was too distraught to write about the agony she felt.
Some might think God was harsh in allowing this to happen. God sees the total picture. Some commentaries mentioned God was merciful in taking the child. God may have looked ahead and saw the humiliation the child would face because of being an illegitimate child of the king. There is much conjecture that goes with this part of our study. At this time, David and Bathsheba would have to face their own shame because they lost a child. Back then people viewed losing a child as a punishment from God. Sadly, this was true for these parents.
I think our verse may have given both of them the hope they needed to go on with their lives. It is also one that may give hope to those losing an infant today.
Sue Winchester
Missouri
PRAY TOGETHER: Pray today for leaders and staff of FWB International Missions.
