Uriah's Character
2 Samuel 11:11-17
You will be tested to compromise, but through reliance on God's strength, you can stand strong.
Preacher F.B. Meyer once commented on the need for character in people of his day. This assessment can be applied to those living in our time today.
"The supreme test of goodness is not in the greater but in the smaller incidents of our character and practice; not what we are when standing in the searchlight of public scrutiny, but when we reach the firelight flicker of our homes; not what we are when some clarion-call rings through the air, summoning us to fight for life and liberty, but our attitude when we are called to sentry-duty in the grey morning, when the watch-fire is burning low. It is impossible to be our best at the supreme moment if character is corroded and eaten into by daily inconsistency, unfaithfulness, and besetting sin. "
Amidst the sad story of lust, sin, and cover up in 2 Samuel 11, we see a shining spot of character and hope in the form of a soldier who chose to do right. David called Uriah, Bathsheeba's husband and one of his most valiant warriors, home from the battle in an effort to make Uriah cover David's sin. But while David thought only of his own interests, Uriah realized how wrong it would be for him to enjoy comfort while his country was at war.
Notice the contrast of the two men in this chapter. David thought of himself, his interests, preserving his name, and covering his sin. Uriah thought of his fellow soldiers, those fighting for his freedom, and his men back on the battlefield. Even though the king ordered him to defy his moral convictions, Uriah held strong. For his character, he was sent to the front line and allowed to be killed, further steeping David in sin and cover up.
Uriah's character is a direct contrast to David's actions. Even when everyone around Uriah choose wrong, he stood firm on his convictions. He knew what was right and was committed to doing just that. Consider your own convictions. If someone challenged them and pressured you to defy them, what would you do? Sure we can all say we'd stand strong, but until you are placed in a situation of possible compromise, how do you know if you'd stand firm?
One way to make sure you stand is to daily pray for strength. Pray that God would give you courage. Pray for moral fortitude and seek His help in standing for right even in the most pressuring situations. You will be tested to compromise, but through reliance on God's strength, you can stand strong.
Daily Bible Reading
Deuteronomy 19-21 | Mark 13:21-37
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