Read 23 -- 24
In Today's Reading:
The last words of David; David's last recorded sin; David builds an altar; his sacrifice; the three-day plague
It would be inconceivable for God to actually force David to commit this sin and then, before the census was completed, to destroy 70,000 people because of it (24:15; I Chronicles 27:24). The Holy Spirit directed the writing of II Samuel to let us see that everyone is under the sovereign will of God but that He allows us to stubbornly go our own way, for He will not violate our free will.
There is no record that taking a census was prohibited. But the Law did state: When you take the sum of the children of Israel after their number, then shall they give every man a ransom for his soul (himself) to the LORD . . . that there be no plague among them. . . . This they shall give, every one that passes among them that are numbered, half a shekel . . . shall be the offering of the LORD (Exodus 30:12-13).
Because of this violation, a plague spread over the land. David's tragic experience is a reminder of how important it is that we pray one for another that: The God of peace . . . Make you perfect in every good work to do His will, working in you that which is well-pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ (Hebrews 13:20-21; Titus 3:8).
Word Studies:
23:10 clave = clung; spoil = plunder, loot; 23:13 chief = foremost, captains; 23:14 hold = stronghold; 24:14 a great strait = great distress; 24:16 stay = do not move.
Through the silver which David used to purchase the threshing floor upon which he built an altar unto the Lord (II Samuel 24:24-25). Silver symbolizes Christ's redemption offered for all. And (Judas) said to them, What will you give me, and I will deliver Him to you? And they covenanted with him for thirty pieces of silver (Matthew 26:15).
The International Shortwave Radio Broadcast in honor of Linda Kennan · Government Officials: Sen. Pat Roberts (KS) and Justice John Paul Stevens · Country: Yemen (17 million) in southwestern Arabia · Major language: Arabic · Attempts to convert Muslims to Christ are fiercely opposed · 98% Muslim; .03% Christian (all secret believers) · Prayer Suggestion: Praise the Lord for His faithfulness and mercy (Lamentations 3:22-23).
Memory Verse for the Week: John 6:44