(story told in 2 Samuel 11-12; 1 Kings 1-2)
Bathsheba’s story began in tragedy but ended in grace. She was the wife of Uriah, a soldier in King David’s army. One evening, while her husband was away at war, David saw Bathsheba bathing and desired her. He sent for her, and though she was married, he took her as his own. When Bathsheba became pregnant, David tried to cover up his sin by bringing Uriah home, hoping he would believe the child was his. But Uriah refused to leave his fellow soldiers, showing loyalty and honor.
When David’s plan failed, he arranged for Uriah to be placed in the front lines of battle, where he was killed. Afterward, David took Bathsheba as his wife. What seemed hidden was not hidden from God. The prophet Nathan came to David and told him a parable about a rich man who stole a poor man’s only lamb. When David condemned the man in the story, Nathan said, “You are the man!” Confronted with his sin, David repented deeply, but the child born from that union died, as Nathan had foretold.
In time, God showed mercy to David and Bathsheba. She later gave birth to another son, Solomon, whom God loved. Solomon would go on to become one of Israel’s greatest kings, known for his wisdom and peace.
Bathsheba also played an important role in helping Solomon become king when David was old. Her courage and wisdom helped secure the future God had planned.
Bathsheba’s story is one of sorrow, forgiveness, and restoration. It reminds us that even after great sin and pain, God’s grace can bring healing and purpose. Through her, God continued His plan that would one day lead to the birth of Jesus Christ.