“Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.” — Ephesians 4:15
>> Sign up here for Sports Spectrum devotionals sent right to your email inbox <<
The results of King David’s affair with Bathsheba were horrendous (2 Samuel 11-13). She got pregnant and David ordered the murder of her husband, who was one of his own military leaders.
Although David suffered greatly from the consequences of his sin, he received forgiveness from the Lord (Psalm 51) after God sent the prophet Nathan to rebuke him and convict him of his sin (2 Samuel 12:1-7). To David’s credit, he received Nathan’s rebuke and acknowledged his sin. King David didn’t defend his actions or make excuses. He admitted that he had blown it and took full responsibility. He allowed himself to be held accountable.
Rebuke is a word we don’t use much anymore, but it’s found repeatedly in the Bible. It means to express a sharp, stern disapproval or reprimand to chastise or admonish, especially a formal one given by a person in authority.
One mark of a trustworthy leader is one who graciously and humbly receives valid criticism and allows himself to be checked and held accountable for his actions (Proverbs 27:5, Psalm 141:5). Good leaders also know how to rebuke and hold others accountable in a way that promotes growth and change, not resentment and rebellion (Ephesians 4:15 (above), Colossians 4:6).
To be a great leader or teammate, you must be humble enough to allow yourself to be held accountable for your actions, and wise enough to know how to hold others accountable, not out of a critical heart but a loving one.
— Jerry Birch, Cleveland Cavaliers chaplain
>> Do you know Christ personally? Learn how you can commit your life to Him <<
>> Dive more into God’s Word with Sports Spectrum through the YouVersion Bible App <<
If you would like to submit a devotional, please email all submissions to
devotionals@sportsspectrum.com
