2 Samuel 24

Interesting passage here and I cannot say that I fully understand it. In the beginning of the chapter, David took a census of his men. From what I understand, it isn't the type of census that we have today but rather the equivalent of what we call the draft in today's time. It makes no sense to draft in a time of peace but David ignored this fact that took a draft anyway. I'm not sure if I fully buy this but my study bible said that this was a sin, not the draft itself but David's mindset. The sole purpose of this draft was to marvel at his own accomplishments and find security in the size of his army.

God gave David the option to choose from one of three punishments as a result of his actions: disease, famine, and war. Instead of choosing, David declared "Let us fall into the hands of the Lord, for his mercy is great". I found this very interesting. David had the opportunity to choose his fate in this case but left it in the hands of God. Instead of turning to his own heart, he turned to God. This is the appropriate response when we sin: to turn to God but to also live in the full knowledge of his mercy.

At the end of the chapter, David built an altar. When it came time to acquire the altar, David offered to pay but the seller offered it for free, oxen included. Free stuff is sweet, right? This was David's response:

"No, I insist on paying you for it. I will not sacrifice to the LORD my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing."

I find this quite compelling and convicting. So often we think that we honor the Lord in our comfort zones. I'm not saying that this is impossible. Here's a question to think about: What do we delight in more, serving the Lord or our comfort? Sometimes serving the Lord requires to us to give up what we value and what we find comfort in. God was previously angry at David for finding security in riches, wealth, and power. I believe that this signifies where David's heart is at. He once found value in wealth but realizes that it is nothing compared to honoring God.

On another note, David could have easily taken the land and oxen for free, built his offer, and sacrificed it to the Lord. Without the cost involved, this sacrifice would mean nothing. Here's what I am not implying: suffer for the Lord for the mere sake of suffering. Here's what I am saying: serve the Lord always, but when the Lord is convicting you to act, don't just go through the motions and do the bare minimum. God looks at the heart.