After the time of mourning was over, David had her brought to his house, and she became his wife and bore him a son. But the thing David had done displeased the Lord (2 Samuel 11: 27).

In his goofy science-fiction book, “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy”, author Douglas Adams talks about learning to fly.  You simply throw yourself at the ground and miss.  It’s just that easy, right?  When I read stories in the Bible, like this one about David, I can conclude that sin is bad, and I shouldn’t sin.  

Don’t sin. It’s just that easy, right?

It’s easy to go through the story about David and Bathsheba and list all of David’s sins. Lust, adultery, lying, violence, and eventually murder! But I also see where David fell victim to sin in areas where his relationships were fractured. I see times when he should’ve turned to God for help, instead of turning away.  I see David failing to lean on those closest to him for support against sin.  Instead, he abuses those relationships to further his sins.

I also see myself in David.  If I just tell myself to “not sin”, I might as well be trying Adams’ advice on flying.  I’ll never miss the ground, nor will I miss the opportunity to sin.  But I also know I have so many sources of goodness in my life where the power of Jesus is shining through.  

One example is my small group. Alongside other Christian families, I talk about the joys I experience, the hardships my family faces, and how faith intersects with both.  When I share time and experiences with other families, it strengthens my own faith and resolve against sin.  I actively confirm the teachings and love of Jesus present in those experiences at small group, and it’s such a good thing.    

These opportunities are all around us.  I feel my relationship with Jesus strengthen as I have a faith conversation with a friend over lunch. When I see people connecting with friends or welcoming new families at church on Sunday, I can feel the presence of Jesus.  When I hear about the amazing work of Church volunteers in our community, I know Jesus is at work in our world.

All of which reminds me of a verse in Isaiah, “Those who wait on the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles.” Now there’s some good advice on flying.

Sin thrives when relationships are fractured.  Pick a spot this week where you can build a deeper relationship with Jesus to strengthen you against sin. Be a friend in faith. Engage more deeply at the Sunday service.  Or spend more time reflecting on devotions this week to see relationships where Jesus is calling you.