Dr. Lawrence Butler
The Bridge Church, Pembroke
Today we continue our study of forgiveness with our fourth dialogue on this most difficult activity. This is not hard to discuss, but it is sometimes terribly overwhelming to perform this most gracious act. Previously, scenarios have been presented which called for divine strength to release hurt and bitterness, allowing for forgiveness to flow through the human spirit.
Let’s consider another destructive human act which has been repeated time and again. In the Old Testament book of II Samuel we find a sad period of Israelite History presented by the author. It is not clear who wrote the book, but Jewish scholars point to the prophet and judge Samuel as well as two other prophets known as Gad and Nathan. Chapter 11 records the tragic incident known throughout Christendom when King David had an illicit affair with Bathsheba. David tried to cover his sin by getting Bathsheba’s husband drunk and sending him home to be with his wife. However, the scheme failed so David concocted another plan and had the husband killed in battle. His sin was uncovered and exposed by God, and David was brought to shame. According to Leviticus 20:10, the rules in place when the incident occurred, both David and Bathsheba should have been put to death. As you read Psalm 51, you realize this is a sincere prayer for forgiveness. This humble prayer brought about the renewing of David’s relationship with the Lord. Thus, the required penalty of death was averted because of mercy. Old Testament people knew nothing of this type of forgiveness, but God was beginning to open their hearts to understanding who He really was.
Broken marriage vows are happening all around us. Divorce has become so commonplace, as well as bitter, that many young people are no longer marrying. They just live together as married couples. When the relationship falls apart, it is much easier to separate without lawyers and court appearances. However, let me assure you, that God established the home as a place for children to be born and reared in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. He never condoned the breaking nor the ignoring of marriage vows. Your vow was to your spouse, but also to God. When one partner is guilty of breaking that vow and committing adultery, the marriage will probably end. However, forgiveness (God’s method) can often save a family from brokenness, keeping children with loving parents.