Forgiven but Not Forgotten: Consequences and Restoration

Introduction

Good morning!

How many of us have made mistakes that haunt us long after we’ve sought forgiveness? The story of King David and Bathsheba is a powerful reminder that while God forgives, the consequences of our actions can leave ripples in our lives and the lives of others.

Today, I want to explore the story of David’s sin and how it shows us the gravity of sin, the steadfast mercy of God, and the hope of restoration—even amid consequences. Alongside this biblical story, I’ll share a modern fictional account of a man who, like David, sought God’s forgiveness after years of turmoil caused by his choices.

I. The Trouble in the Text

King David's Sin and Its Consequences

David, a man after God’s own heart, made a grave mistake. While his army was off at war, David stayed behind. One evening, he saw Bathsheba bathing on a rooftop. Consumed by lust, he called her to his palace, and their sin resulted in her pregnancy (2 Samuel 11:2-5).

To cover up his wrongdoing, David arranged for Bathsheba’s husband, Uriah, to be killed in battle. He thought he had buried his sin (2 Samuel 11:14-17). But God saw it all.

Through the prophet Nathan, God confronted David with his sin. Nathan told a parable of a rich man who stole a poor man’s lamb. Outraged, David condemned the man’s actions—only to realize that Nathan was speaking about him (2 Samuel 12:1-10).

David repented, and God forgave him. But forgiveness didn’t mean freedom from consequences. The child born to Bathsheba would die, and David’s household would face turmoil for generations (2 Samuel 12:13-14).

This story reveals two important truths:

No one is above sin, not even a king.

Sin has consequences, even when God forgives.

II. The Trouble in Our World

The Challenge of Sin and Consequences in Our Lives

Now let me tell you a modern story.

A man—let’s call him Mark—was trapped in an abusive marriage. For years, he endured emotional and physical abuse until he reached his breaking point. He left his wife, believing it was the only way to survive.

But his choice came with consequences. His children were caught in the crossfire. One daughter sided with him; the other stayed with their mother. Years of bitterness and estrangement followed.

Twenty years later, Mark began to see the damage his choice had caused. While leaving the marriage might have been necessary, he realized he had made other mistakes—harsh words, poor decisions, and neglecting his children’s emotional needs.

Like David, Mark turned to God, repenting for his role in the family’s pain. God forgave him, but the consequences remained. His relationships with his children were strained. Some wounds seemed impossible to heal.

Mark’s story reminds us that sin—whether it’s born of pride, anger, or even desperation—leaves scars. But it also reminds us that God’s forgiveness is always available when we repent.

III. The Grace in the Text

God's Forgiveness and Restoration for David

Here’s the good news: God doesn’t leave us in our brokenness.

When David repented, God forgave him and continued to work through him. Despite the consequences of his sin, God fulfilled His promise to David: his lineage would lead to the Messiah, Jesus Christ.

David’s repentance is beautifully captured in Psalm 51: “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation.”

Even in our failures, God offers hope. His forgiveness is not earned but freely given because of His mercy.

IV. The Grace in Our World

Hope and Restoration in Our Lives

Mark’s story also didn’t end in despair.

Through prayer, counseling, and consistent effort, Mark began to rebuild his relationships. He sought his children’s forgiveness, showing them that his repentance was genuine. Though not every relationship was fully restored, Mark found peace in knowing he had done his part.

And here’s the most beautiful part: God used Mark’s story to help others. Mark began mentoring men in similar situations, sharing his experiences and encouraging them to seek God’s guidance.

This is the grace of God in action. He doesn’t just forgive us; He redeems our mistakes and uses them for His purposes. As Romans 8:28 says, “God works all things together for the good of those who love Him.”

Conclusion

David’s story and Mark’s story share a common thread: sin has consequences, but God’s grace is greater.

So what does this mean for us?

First, we must acknowledge our sins and repent. No matter how great our failures, God’s mercy is greater.

Second, we must accept that forgiveness doesn’t erase consequences—but it opens the door to healing and hope.

Finally, we must trust that God can use even our brokenness for His glory.

As we leave here today, let’s remember: forgiveness doesn’t mean forgetting, but it does mean trusting that God’s grace is sufficient.

Amen.