Cave or Rooftop

2 Samuel 11-15

Saturday, April 4, 2026 l Kelley Bachtel

There was always excitement when the book fair came to school, transforming the library into a colorful display of books and journals. There was just one problem—I wasn’t a strong reader or writer. Still, that didn’t stop me from buying things that would sit unused for years.

David’s writings were not left as empty pages. His Psalms were filled with real prayers, preserved for us to see both his struggles and his faith.

David’s life shows two very different settings: a cave and a rooftop.

In the darkness of a cave, David was on the run. Though chosen as king, he was hunted by Saul. In those hidden places, he poured out his heart to God, reminding himself of who God is—unchanging and faithful (Hebrews 13:8). Even there, he declared, “I cry out to God Most High, to God who fulfills his purposes for me” (Psalm 57:2).

But later, on a rooftop, David let his guard down. When he should have been at battle, he stayed behind. Like in Genesis 3, he saw, desired, and acted. Confronted by Nathan, David was brought to repentance. In that brokenness, he wrote Psalm 51, crying out for cleansing and restoration—trusting that only God could give him a new heart.

Whether you feel like you’re in a cave—waiting and trusting—or on a rooftop—convicted and needing repentance—God meets you there.

He is faithful in both places.

He is ready to restore, to forgive, and to renew.

The question is: will you seek Him with your whole heart?