Ingratitude is a significant theme in the biblical narrative of King David and Uriah the Hittite, as recorded in 2 Samuel 11. This account highlights the moral and spiritual failings of David, a man after God's own heart, when he disregarded the loyalty and service of Uriah, one of his mighty men.

Background

Uriah the Hittite was one of David's elite warriors, known as the "mighty men" (2 Samuel 23:39). These men were renowned for their bravery and loyalty to David, often risking their lives in battle to secure his kingdom. Uriah's dedication to David and Israel was evident in his willingness to fight on the front lines, even when it meant being away from his home and wife, Bathsheba.

David's Sin

The narrative of David's ingratitude begins when he remained in Jerusalem while his army went to war against the Ammonites. From the rooftop of his palace, David saw Bathsheba, Uriah's wife, bathing. Overcome by desire, David sent for her and committed adultery (2 Samuel 11:2-4). This act of betrayal was compounded by David's subsequent actions to conceal his sin.

When Bathsheba informed David that she was pregnant, David attempted to cover up the adultery by summoning Uriah from the battlefield, hoping he would go home and sleep with his wife, thus providing a plausible explanation for the pregnancy (2 Samuel 11:6-8). However, Uriah, demonstrating his loyalty and integrity, refused to enjoy the comforts of home while his fellow soldiers were encamped in the open fields. He slept at the entrance of the palace with the servants, saying, "The ark and Israel and Judah are dwelling in tents, and my master Joab and my lord’s men are camped in the open field. How can I go to my house to eat and drink and lie with my wife? As surely as you live and as your soul lives, I will not do such a thing!" (2 Samuel 11:11).

The Ultimate Betrayal

David's ingratitude reached its peak when his initial plan failed. He resorted to a more sinister scheme, instructing Joab, the commander of his army, to place Uriah at the forefront of the fiercest battle and then withdraw from him, ensuring his death (2 Samuel 11:14-15). Joab followed David's orders, and Uriah was killed in battle (2 Samuel 11:16-17).

Moral and Spiritual Implications

David's actions towards Uriah exemplify a profound ingratitude, not only towards a loyal servant but also towards God. Uriah's unwavering loyalty and integrity starkly contrast with David's moral failure. Despite Uriah's faithfulness, David repaid him with betrayal and death, violating the trust and honor that should have characterized their relationship.

The prophet Nathan later confronted David, using a parable to reveal the gravity of his sin (2 Samuel 12:1-7). David's ingratitude and subsequent repentance serve as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and the importance of gratitude and integrity in relationships.

Conclusion

The account of David and Uriah is a powerful illustration of ingratitude and its devastating effects. It challenges believers to examine their own hearts and actions, ensuring that they reflect the gratitude and righteousness that God desires.2 Samuel 11:6-17
And David sent to Joab, saying, Send me Uriah the Hittite. And Joab sent Uriah to David.
Nave's Topical Index

The Sixth Commandment
... the prophet Nathan, Thou hast killed Uriah.' 2 Samuel 12 ... 1 Sam 24: 5. How would David's
heart have ... murder only, but of disobedience, ingratitude, and diabolical ...
/.../watson/the ten commandments/2 6 the sixth commandment.htm

Tit. 2:06 Thoughts for Young Men
... and robbery, selfishness, unkindness, and ingratitude; all these ... If David had not
given occasion to the ... probably never have seen Bathsheba, nor murdered Uriah. ...
/.../chapter xix tit 2 6 thoughts.htm

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