2SAMUEL 11-12:David showed kindness to Jonathan's only living son. Then we heard the story of how suspicion caused offense, which led to all-out war with the Ammonites. And David was victorious again against the Arameans and Ammonites. Today I want to highlight some important realities: God is watching. Our sins may be forgiven, but there will still be consequences.

PSALM 111:This beautiful psalm of praise is an acrostic poem in Hebrew.

ROMANS 14:In yesterday's reading, Paul taught us to submit to rulers and government officials, then he urged us to love one another and lead holy lives. Now chapter 14 covers the divisive area of rituals and traditions.

NLT Translation notes:2Sam. 12:14 Nevertheless, because you have shown utter contempt for the [0//word of the] Lord by doing this, your child will die. (The Hebrew text doesn't seem to contain 'word of'.)Rom. 14:1 Accept other believers who are weak in [the way they believe//faith], and don't argue with them about what they think is right or wrong.5 In the same way, some think one day is more holy than another day, while others think every day is alike. You should each be fully convinced [in your decision about this matter//that whichever day you choose is acceptable].8 If we live, it's to honor the Lord. And if we die, it's to honor the Lord. So whether we live or die, [(or do anything else,)] we belong to the Lord.11 For the Scriptures say, "'As surely as I live,' says the LORD, 'every knee will bend to me, and every tongue will [confess and give praise//declare allegiance] to God. '"15 And if another believer is distressed by what you eat, you are not acting in love if you eat it [right in front of him]. Don't let your eating ruin someone for whom Christ died.

Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.