We are encouraged to guard against anything which takes away from our complete dependence on our Heavenly Father. Worldly security can sometimes cause us to close our eyes and ears to God's leading. Becoming secure in the world means we are placing our trust in the things of the world. David made this mistake and it cost him dearly.
God described David as "a man after My own heart" Acts 13:22. David clearly saw God working in his life. When he went to fight Goliath with only stones and a sling, he knew to trust in the strength offered by God; "All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord saves; for the battle is the Lord's" 1 Samuel 17:47. God continued to protect David through his trials with Saul and later led him through many military victories as the king of Israel. But toward the end of his reign, David began to trust the world's definition of power and might.
"Satan rose up against Israel and incited David to take a census of Israel. So David said to Joab and the commanders of the troops, 'Go and count the Israelites. Then report back to me so that I may know how many there are.'"1 Chronicles 21:1-2
God allowed Satan to tempt David because there was still deep rooted pride in David that needed to be revealed. There was nothing inherently wrong with counting the people. When God led the nation of Israel out of Egypt, He told Moses; "Take a census of the whole Israelite community" (Numbers 1:2). But David had become very "self" reliant and had placed his trust in his own strength and abilities. He became focused on his resources - the number of men who were able to fight - rather than keeping his eyes and ears on the true Commander of ALL battles.
David recognized and confessed his sin: "I have sinned greatly by doing this. Now, I beg You, take away the guilt" 1 Chronicles 21:8. Though David's sin was forgiven, God still enforced severe consequences; "So the Lord sent a plague on Israel, and seventy thousand men of Israel fell dead" 1 Chronicles 21:14. As the leader of God's chosen people, David was expected to set a clear example of complete trust.
God wants and expects the total devotion of our heart. Devotion will always mean love and worship, but it also must include our sustained and unwavering trust. Our Heavenly Father establishes our path and provides all the necessary strength to achieve the victory He desires. He simply asks that we trust only in Him and continue to follow where He leads. Let's give Him ALL the glory and honor as we keep our eyes forever focused on Christ and guard against the sin of misplaced trust.
- steve troxel
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