I Chronicles 19-21

“Satan rose up against Israel and incited David to take a census of Israel” (21:1). While Kings tells of David’s adultery, Chronicles focuses on another sin: when David turned away from trusting the Lord’s power and wanted to count his army, so he could rely on Israel’s own resources. The Lord had given David countless victories, and he had even promised to give David an enduring kingdom and great name – a “house” (17:11- 13). Instead, David “sinned greatly” by looking elsewhere for security, and his people paid the price (21:8).

“The Lord will build a house for you” (17:10). Jesus said that the life of discipleship requires “losing” ourselves (Mark 8:35), surrendering control, so that we find our purpose in him.