What happens after a dark chapter in the family business?

After King David admits he sinned in his actions with Bathsheba and her husband Uriah, God tells David he will lose the son born from the affair. Indeed, David’s son becomes sick and dies. But God is still present in David’s family.

Then David comforted his wife, Bathsheba, and went in to her and lay with her, and she bore a son, and he called his name Solomon. And the LORD loved him and sent a message by Nathan the prophet. So he called his name Jedidiah, because of the LORD. (2 Sam. 12:24-25)

David and Bathsheba lost a son and were going through the grieving process. They have another son, Solomon, and God re-emerges, this time not with anger, but with love. Nathan, the prophet and advisor to King David who had initially confronted David about his sinful behavior, gives Solomon the name “Jedidiah,” which means “beloved of God.” David’s sin, and the loss of the son — a dark chapter in David’s life — was not the end. To be sure, David’s family will go through more difficulties, but God’s love is also present. Grief and joy, judgment and love are inseparable companions in David's life and family.

Families and family businesses also go through dark chapters. An unexpected death. Conflict, estrangement, or poor behavior between family members. Alcohol or substance abuse or addiction. Quitting or being fired from the family business. Divorce. Economic turmoil. The list goes on, but our faith teaches us that God is always there. Through David’s story we see that God’s love proclaims a standard, holds us accountable, supports us through trials, celebrates with us, comforts us during difficult times, and gives us hope for the future.

Can you recall a dark chapter in your family or family business? How do you continue to affirm God’s presence in your life, even after a dark chapter?