SCREACHING BRAKES
Today's reading:  2 Samuel 10-14

"Late one afternoon David got out of bed after taking a nap and went for a stroll on the roof of the palace.  As he looked over the city, he noticed a woman of unusual beauty taking a bath."  2 Samuel 11:2 NLT

Scholars will argue David was not where David should have been.  In the spring of the year, all the good kings were off to war.  David, chose to stay home.

My Dad would say David's problems started when he decided to 'sleep the day away'. 

There are some who will blame Bathsheba for David's problems. 

Which ever camp you're roasting marshmallows in, I believe we can all agree--David, despite circumstances, could have stopped the chain reaction at several points in the story!

Can't we all?

David chose to stay home, but could've used his time a little more wisely.

David saw, but could've stopped himself from acting upon his lusts.

David wanted, but could've have stopped himself from sending for her.

David desired to cover up his mistakes, but could've stopped himself from issuing orders to kill Uriah.

David had many opportunities to stop sinning, but chose not to...and the consequences were pricey.

And us?

Whether it's refraining from stating our mind, sticking to a diet, opting to pray instead of worry, forgiving instead of fuming, looking for God's will instead of an easy out, we can all stop where we are and choose not to sin anymore.

Where will you stop the chain of events your choices are forming?