January 12
Straight from the Pastor’s Heart by Dr. Hernes Abante
2 Samuel 7:15-17 - “But my mercy shall not depart away from him, as I took it from Saul, whom I put away before thee.
[16] And thine house and thy kingdom shall be established forever before thee: thy throne shall be established for ever.
[17] According to all these words, and according to all this vision, so did Nathan speak unto David.
The story of David, a man considered after God's own heart, is a testament of the Lord's mercy and grace. Despite David's numerous transgressions and the blood he shed, God never turned away from him. He met some consequences, but the Lord continued to use David for His divine purposes.
Some may question how this is possible when David acknowledged that "If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me." Does God compromise His standards and allow sin to prevail? David's statement refers to his prayer life, knowing his heart is not right with God. He knew that he was not worthy to approach God in that state.
However, this does not mean that God cannot use anyone still struggling with sin to accomplish His will. The Lord can use any of us or anything to fulfill His plan in someone's life. David's story reminds us that despite our flaws and shortcomings, God's love and mercy are unfailing, and He can use us despite and especially those who are willing to surrender their life to Him.
In the Bible, there are two distinct types of vessels - the vessel of honor and dishonor. God uses both of these vessels for His purposes. Even an unclean vessel can be used by God through His grace to fulfill His plan, but a vessel of dishonor will not receive a reward. When God uses a vessel of honor, there is an eternal reward.
Take the example of Judas, one of the Apostles of Jesus Christ, who betrayed the Savior. God used him to execute His plan to save us. But because he was the “son of perdition,” he suffered eternal suffering. On the other hand, David, because of his faith in God, received God's amazing grace.
The Lord told Nathan that His mercy would never depart from David and that he would be so blessed that his house and kingdom would be established and endure forever.
The promise to King David was fulfilled in Jesus Christ in two parts. The first is the Davidic Covenant, clearly outlined in 2 Samuel 7:16, "Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me; your throne will be established forever." This promise is repeated in Luke 1:31-33, in the words of the angel who appeared to Mary to announce Jesus' birth to her.
The angel declares that Jesus will be great and called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end.
The Lord Jesus Christ fulfills the Davidic Covenant. He is the chosen King in the lineage of David, Who will reign forever. This promise is an incredible act of grace by God to someone unworthy. This same grace is available to any one of us.
Our Prayer for today:
Dear God, we are grateful for your never-ending grace and the opportunity to spread your gospel. We recognize that we are not perfect, but we are committed to serving you and being a vessel for your love and salvation to reach those who need it most. Please help us always to be worthy of your praise and to glorify your name through our life of obedience and service. Thank you for entrusting us with this important mission despite our unworthiness. In Jesus Name, Amen!