Traditionally, Bathsheba is remembered for her adulterous affair with King David and is referred to as “the wife of Uriah.” But let’s recount how God remembers her.
Most of the rest of Bathsheba’s life is wrapped in a veil of silence. Perhaps the text’s silence is teaching us that in life there are no simple answers, and often what we think we see and believe we know is not reality.
The scandalous affair of David and Bathsheba did not end in one night. Bathsheba’s story of one woman’s journey from innocence to despair – and of the God who restored her. To many, her names means seduction and sin, yet God called Bathsheba his own and worthy of the legacy of his Son.
Bathsheba, the wife of King David and mother of King Solomon, was God’s chosen woman to be the ancestor of Jesus Christ. Her pedigree was flawless; her character undeniably virtuous; her timeless beauty beyond compare. King David doted on her, ferociously loved her, and protected her with the vigilance of the great Lion of Judah.
Proverbs were written about her; songs were sung about her. Her wisdom, courage, piety, and leadership were exemplary. God ensured that His Everlasting Kingdom would be continued through Bathsheba alone, because of her marriage to King David and her motherhood of King Solomon.
Who would think that a relationship with such a sin-drenched foundation could even survive, much less prosper? God demonstrated His grace in the sanctification of a relationship that had once brought the condemnation of death.
Bathsheba, did you know you are worth more than rubies?
Bathsheba, do you know that your name’s inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus (Matthew 1) is another token that God had put your sins behind His back? Restored to divine favor, and now virtuous and wise as well as beautiful.
Bathsheba, you are a faithful Hebrew woman who understood what it meant to receive wise counsel, and who related to the warrior, priestly life. God rightfully chose you for the qualities He desired in a woman to lead His Kingdom Family into eternity.
King Solomon, wrote towards the end of his life, a eulogy about you: Proverbs 31, where he described “The Virtuous Woman.”
The rest of your life is veiled in silence, but we can imagine how noble calmness, gentle dignity, and queenly courage became yours. The Lord has blessed me through you. May those blessings return upon to you a thousand fold.
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(The questions below were adapted from Francine River’s Book “Unspoken”)
Dear reader, You have just read the story of Bathsheba as perceived by one author. Is this the whole truth about the story of David and Bathsheba? Jesus said to seek and you will find the answers you need for life. The best way to find the truth is to look for yourself! This “Seek and Find” section is designed to help you discover the story of Bathsheba as recorded in the Bible. It consists of six short studies that you can do on your own or with a small discussion group. You may be surprised to learn that this ancient story will have applications for your life today. No matter where we live or in what century, God’s Word is truth. It is as relevant today as it was yesterday. In it we find a future and a hope.
What does restoration mean to you?
Read the following passage: Dear brothers and sisters, if another Christian is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself. Share each other’s troubles and problems, and in this way obey the law of Christ (GALATIANS 6: 1-2)
- What role do we have in helping one another be restored to God?
- What attitude are you to have when others need to be restored?
- Are you seeking restoration?
- What steps do you need to take?
STOP AND PONDER “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me in earnest, you will find me when you seek me. I will be found by you,” says the Lord. JEREMIAH 29: 11-14A
Jesus has found you. Have you found Him? He’s waiting.