Satan rose up against Israel and incited David to take a census of Israel.
1 Chronicles 21:1 (NIV)
Father God, when reading this episode in the life of David I stand amazed at how Your plans are manifested out of the failings of our flesh. I see so many parallels in the story of Job. Even as You pointed Satan towards Your servant Job (Job 1:8), You did the same with David (2 Samuel 24:1 & 1 Chronicles 21:1). Innocent people were impacted (Job 1:18-19 & 1 Chronicles 21:14). Both Your servants repented (Job 42:1-6 & 1 Chronicles 21:8). And in the end, You are glorified, blessing Job greater than he had been before, and David dedicating an area that would become the glorious Temple of God. The tension in these passages is so real: human failings and divine sovereignty; Your will being accomplished, not just despite human failings but through them! Indeed, You are too wonderful for me, far beyond my ability to fully understand and comprehend!
Father, this gives me a great deal of caution, as well and comfort. The caution comes because I am still prone to sin, and my sins have consequences. And those consequences impact the lives of those around me. There is in all that is going on around me lessons for me to learn regarding Who You are and Your will for my life. Help me today to walk in that knowledge, living my life in a manner that pleases You. Help me to learn from my mistakes and the mistakes of others, to see the error of my ways, and like David and Job, repent when You show me how I am falling short. Enable me not to keep making the same mistakes (Hebrews 10:30-31).
Father, this all points me to Jesus, Whose life You completely orchestrated, from birth to death, the innocent to suffer for the guilty. Satan tempted Him, yet He did not falter like Job or David. He was the innocent person impacted, dying for the sins of others, paying the price would could not pay. Through Him and by Him I am compelled to repent and confess my sins, embracing His lordship in my life. In Him I not only have forgiveness and peace, but in the end I shall see Him, enjoying eternal fellowship with You beyond this world. I get comfort from this, knowing that in the end You will be glorified and worshiped, that my soul will be satisfied, and that I will see You for myself. Hallelujah!
Thank You for these light and momentary afflictions that are creating in me an eternal weight of glory as I look to things that are eternal (2 Corinthians 4:17-18). Continue Your great work in me. Purge from the me sins that keep me from pleasing You. And show me the way to Your righteousness. I want to make You smile. Thank You for making me smile! Amen!