David’s Grief
David’s Example of Grieving Through Loss
Then David arose from the earth and washed and anointed himself and changed his clothes. And he went into the house of the Lord and worshiped. He then went to his own house. And when he asked, they set food before him, and he ate.
2 Samuel 12:20
After David's sin with Bathsheba (recorded in 2 Samuel 11), God punished him by bringing chaos to his kingdom and taking his son (who, in a way, was being saved from that chaos). Although David's sin was ultimately against God (Psalm 51:4), it affected many other people.
2 Samuel 11-12 describes the tragic events that led to the downfall of the second king of Israel. Interestingly, this passage also provides comfort and hope to many. 2 Samuel 12:15-23, in particular, brought comfort to my wife and me as we grieved the loss of our son. David's grief serves as an example for many who lose a loved one, especially a baby or an infant.
David was confident he would see his child again. This is especially clear when his response in 2 Samuel 12 is contrasted with his response in 2 Samuel 18 upon hearing of the death of his son Absalom. David, a man who was well acquainted with death, felt peace when his newborn child passed away. Yes, he grieved the loss. But he was confident that he would go to him one day. On the other hand, the death of his wicked son Absalom greatly grieved him. David even wished to die in his place.
Like David, we can take comfort that those who cannot accept Christ (such as infants and those with intellectual disabilities) will be in heaven. For more information about this topic, check out this brief article by John Piper or Safe in the Arms of God by John MacArthur.
Grief is overwhelming, but it doesn't need to defeat or define us. Remember that there is hope beyond the grave.
Factors leading up to the loss:
David sinned specifically and was judged specifically.
David knew he was going to suffer loss.
David wept, prayed, and fasted.
Actions following the loss:
David cleaned himself.
David ate.
David worshiped.
David accepted the loss.
David was confident he would see his child again.
David did not question God’s will or try to change the past.
David comforted others (his wife).
Contrasted with Absalom’s loss (2 Samuel 18:31-33):
David mourned the death of his wicked son.
David wished he died instead.
David was uncertain about seeing Absalom again.
Lament Psalms by David: Psalm 3-7, 9, 10, 12-14, 17, 22, 25-28, 31, 35, 36, 38, 39, 41, 51, 52-61, 64, 69, 70, 86, 109, 139, 140-143
David’s Lamentations: 1 Samuel 20:41; 30:4; 2 Samuel 1:11-12, 17-27; 3:31-39; 13:31, 36; 15:30-31; 18:33; 19:1-4
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Soli Deo Gloria,
Caleb Friske