II Samuel 23-24

“The Rock of Israel said to me: ‘When one rules over people in righteousness ... in the fear of God, he is like the light of morning at sunrise” (23:24). King David’s psalms reveal his intention to lean on God as “Rock” and to rule righteously. Yet, humanly speaking, he was also tempted to behave like an ordinary king. In a moment of pride, David wanted to count his people and measure his own success (ch 24), with disastrous results. He quickly realized “I have sinned greatly” (24:10).

“Let us fall into the hands of the Lord ...” (24:14). God is the only secure foundation for our present and future. Self-reliance eventually crumbles, but his love and faithfulness endure forever.