David’s Sin of Pride (1 Chronicles 21:1-8)
The chapter begins with Satan inciting David to take a census of Israel. While counting the people may seem harmless, David’s motivation was rooted in pride and a desire to measure his military strength rather than relying on God’s protection. Joab, David’s commander, recognized the folly of this decision and questioned it, but David insisted.
This act of pride displeased God, and David soon realized the gravity of his sin. He confessed, “I have sinned greatly by doing this. Now, I beg you, take away the guilt of your servant. I have done a very foolish thing” (1 Chronicles 21:8). This moment highlights the danger of self-reliance and the importance of trusting in God rather than our own abilities.
The Consequences and David’s Repentance (1 Chronicles 21:9-17)
God gave David a choice of three consequences for his sin: three years of famine, three months of fleeing from enemies, or three days of plague. David chose to fall into the hands of the Lord, saying, “His mercy is very great” (v. 13). A plague struck Israel, resulting in the death of 70,000 men.
As the angel of the Lord prepared to destroy Jerusalem, God relented and commanded the angel to stop. David, seeing the devastation, cried out to God, taking full responsibility for his actions and pleading for mercy on his people. This moment demonstrates David’s genuine repentance and his concern for others.
God’s Mercy and the Altar at Ornan’s Threshing Floor (1 Chronicles 21:18-30)
In response to David’s repentance, God instructed him to build an altar at the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite. Ornan offered to give David the land and the materials for the sacrifice, but David insisted on paying full price, saying, “I will not take for the Lord what is yours, nor offer burnt offerings that cost me nothing” (v. 24).
David’s sacrifice and prayer were accepted by God, and the plague was stopped. This site later became the location for the temple, a place where God’s presence would dwell among His people. This act of worship and obedience highlights the importance of genuine repentance and the power of God’s mercy.
Lessons from 1 Chronicles 21 for Today
- The Danger of Pride: David’s census reminds us of the dangers of pride and self-reliance. We must always depend on God rather than our own strength.
- The Power of Repentance: David’s heartfelt confession shows the importance of acknowledging our sins and seeking God’s forgiveness.
- God’s Mercy is Great: Even in the face of sin, God’s mercy is available to those who turn to Him with a repentant heart.
- Worship that Costs Something: David’s refusal to offer a sacrifice that cost him nothing challenges us to give God our best and approach Him with sincerity.
Conclusion
1 Chronicles 21 is a powerful chapter that teaches us about the consequences of sin, the importance of repentance, and the depth of God’s mercy. Through David’s story, we learn to guard against pride, seek God’s forgiveness, and trust in His provision. Let this chapter inspire you to live humbly, repent sincerely, and rely on God’s unfailing mercy.
