1. David foolishly orders a census (1-7)

David defeated human enemies but fell to spiritual ones. Satan incited him to take a census. Joab told David that it would bring guilt. But David’s pride in numbers overruled the objection. Joab counted one million, one hundred thousand troops even without counting Levi and Benjamin. A census itself was not wrong. However, David’s census was done out of pride in human strength without intention of paying the census tax. (Ex 30:11-16) David’s motivations made this census evil in God’s sight.

2. Confession, repentance and God’s mercy (8-17)

David confessed his foolish sin and begged God for forgiveness. God gave three choices of punishment. Though in deep distress for his decision that led his nation into sin, David remembered God’s merciful character. The LORD sent a terrible plague upon all Israel. David took responsibility for his sin and begged God to spare his people. This was true repentance.


Application: Lord, lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. Please forgive our sin and be merciful to us.
One Word: Repent our sin; ask for God’s mercy