Did You Know Uriah was David’s Loyal Friend?

You are probably aware of David’s sin of adultery with Bathsheba (2 Sam. 11).  We rightly talk about David’s lustful actions brought about by viewing her bathing on her rooftop.  But have we considered the treachery and sin of David as it relates to his friendship to Uriah? 

Uriah was Bathsheba’s husband.  He is listed as one of David’s mighty men (2 Sam. 23:39, 1 Chron. 11:41).  He was a commander of a division and was renowned for his exploits and services to the king.  He had been with David since his early times before rising in stature to King over Israel.  

Uriah, though a Hittite, was such a loyal follower of David and the army of Israel that he refused to enjoy the pleasure of his wife when called back from battle by David (2 Sam. 11:6-13).

Yet, David abused this friendship.  He trampled over the loyalty and dedication of one of his servants.  He took this man’s precious wife, while he was off fighting for him!  What a horrible deed.  What a desecration of friendship. 

Two Points I wish to make from this story:

• David’s sin of adultery was just not about the sexual immorality, but also about the breaking of loyalty and friendship to her husband Uriah.  David wrote in Psalm 41:9, “Even my close friend in whom I trusted, who ate my bread, has lifted his heel against me.”  David knew what it was to be betrayed by a friend, yet he betrays his friend Uriah.  Proverbs 27:10 instructs us not to forsake a friend or our father’s friend.  Friendship is to be valued.  We must always act in the best interest of our friends, displaying kindness and loyalty to them.
• David’s actions stand as a warning to the dangers inherit in the lust of the flesh and the pride of life.  David allowed his arrogance and base fleshly desires to lead him to act treacherously towards a man who was willing to give his life for him.  David’s momentary passions appear so foolish when considered in the light of his friendship with Uriah.  Yet, adultery and sexual sin will cause a person to trample over other people including a loyal spouse, a dear friend, or even the Lord to gain a momentary satisfaction.  

Let’s apply these ancient lessons from David to our modern world.  Let’s be loyal to our friends, while not being deceived by the devils lies about adultery.

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See my other post on David’s Adultery with Bathsheba – The Irrationality of Adultery