Everybody needs a Nathan in their life…
King David was a man after God’s own heart, but like us, he was also a flawed individual – so it’s good that he had Nathan in his life. Nathan was loyal to God, but also a servant and real friend to David – willing to speak hard truth into David’s life (2 Samuel 7;12, 1 King 1, 1 Chronicles 17). We all need this kind of accountability.
Why am I saying this? Self control is a big problem for us all too often. Just a few indicators of this is the multi-billion dollar weight loss, pharmaceutical, and porn industries – and yes, I’m talking about issues within the church. We are all tempted to indulge in unhealthy / ungodly behavior. When we act on the temptation (which comes from within), we add insult to injury by going to the world to get a solution!
Look, it takes a real friend to say things like;
⁃ “You’re overweight because you eat junk food five days a week.”
⁃ “Drugs are a part of a sick-care system not health-care” (health is about prevention). You need to take better care of yourself.”
⁃ “Those explicit movies you watch are going to destroy your mind and relationships.”
The Word teaches; “No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it.” (1 Corinthians 10:13)
We need godly truth spoken into our lives – not just from a pastor on Sunday. God will use a Nathan in your life to be that “exit” sign to point you the way out. In addition, we have the responsibility to be a Nathan for someone else as well.
Do you have a Nathan in your life? If you don’t have one, get one! It’s vital to your spiritual, mental, and physical well being.
Not By Bread Alone 