Session 17

Is God fair?

From 2 Samuel: A 5-Week Devotional

“It’s not fair!” If we’re parents, we’ve heard our children say this many times. Even if we aren’t parents, we’ve said it ourselves. We’ve seen a cheater win, a thief get away, or one person get paid more for the same work.

Sometimes life does seem unfair. We work hard and get most things right. Then we mess up one thing, and the consequences seem harsh. “It’s not fair!” we mumble.

In 1 Samuel 31, David recognized and repented for his adultery with Bathsheba. He prayed for God to spare his son, but the child still died. “It’s not fair!” could have been David’s cry. It might be ours. God killed an innocent child! Surely, that’s not fair! But wait: David coveted another man’s wife — making her an idol — stole her, and committed adultery with her. He ordered her husband, Uriah, to be killed. And, David dishonored his parents by his actions. David broke six of the Ten Commandments! He should have been toast!

Yet God spared David. The number or severity of David’s sins were not the issue. The same is true for us. When we repent — allowing our change of heart to lead to a change in behavior — we are forgiven.

When we repent, we are forgiven. 

But, God has never tolerated sin without sacrifice. The consequence for our sin may not seem fair to us, but it is always just and for ultimate good. God’s justice took one child. And, His goodness provided David a second son. Through Solomon, God continued the lineage that would produce the Savior of the World — the ultimate sacrifice for all of our sins.

We may not always think God is fair. By faith, however, we can believe God knows the plans He has for us, and He is always working toward good for those who love and obey Him.

Reflect:

• When have you said, “It isn’t fair”? Were you eventually able to see God working for ultimate good?
• Is there something you need to confess and turn away from? What step can you take to do that? 

Experiencing an unfair situation? We're here for you. Visit the Care Room on Sunday or connect with us here.