We can be so fickle. And, we can’t understand why we go through some of the things we do! In my own life, I have realized that when I put myself first; pride settles in my heart. Has that happened to you? And, as a result we waver to the extent of being capricious.
David found himself in a desperate situation because of his “fickleness” for one and because of pride. Again, he overstepped his boundaries. Does this sound familiar? Oh, please haven’t you ever overstepped yours? I know I have, many times and frankly, I’m not “proud” of it!
Maybe, it was because he had been so victorious in recent battles. After all he was a military hero, an excellent strategist; king of Israel! The scripture relates that: “Satan rose up against Israel and caused David to take a census of the people of Israel.”
So David gave the instruction to Joab and his commanders and told them to take the census. Joab balked and asked David, “But why, my lord the king, do you want to do this? Are they not all your servants? Why must you cause Israel to sin?”
But, David insisted and the census was taken. David ordered it, knowing he should not have. This is where his pride is exemplified.
In those times, a man only had the right to count or number what belonged to him. Israel didn’t belong to him, Israel belonged to God. God told Moses in Exodus 30:12, “When you take a census of the Israelites to count them, each one must pay the Lord a ransom for his life at the time he is counted. Then no plague will come on them when you number them.”
It was up to God to command a census and if David counted he should only do it at God’s command, receiving a ransom to “atone” for the counting. This is why God was so angry with David. It is also why David was stricken with guilt. He knew it was wrong!
This is where he demonstrates his “fickleness!” He counted when he knew he shouldn’t and yet he did it anyway! And, then feels guilty? Does this sound familiar?
We need to keep close tabs on what’s in our heart!
To be continued…
ritasalomon 