4 things to learn…
David gives into a temptation by Satan. He knows it’s against the commands of the Lord to number Israel. The Lord’s judgment comes against all of Israel. During that judgment the Lord relents. Following the Lord’s mercy David repents and makes an offering to the Lord for his sin.
Application we can take from this scripture:
1- Our sin doesn’t only affect us. David sinned, but those around him were also affected.
2- The Lord is merciful. David himself said, “…Please let me fall into the hand of the Lord, for His mercies are very great; but do not let me fall into the hand of man.” I Chronicles 21:13
3- The Lord is forgiving. “…the Lord looked and relented of the disaster, and said… “It is enough; now restrain your hand.” …” I Chronicles 21:15
4- God’s forgiveness is free but our repentance comes at a cost. “Then King David said to Ornan, “No, but I will surely buy it for the full price, for I will not take what is yours for the Lord, nor offer burnt offerings with that which costs me nothing.” I Chronicles 21:24
Our conscience bears witness of God’s law and truth. Therefore, we know what’s right and wrong, yet we’ve all sinned. We should remember the greatness of the Lord’s mercy and forgiveness. While the Lord willingly forgives our repentance should be at a cost. It should cost us our mind in reflection, our soul in fresh commitment, and our strength to worship anew as we make a decision to love the Lord with all our mind, soul, and strength.
-To Know Jesus. To Live on Mission.