Why do we find temptation so tempting as we easily fall into the snares of Satan repeatedly? In 1 Chronicles 21:1 Satan tempted David to number the people Israel. Who’s fault was it that David chose to sin by numbering the people of Israel without God’s approval? Who’s fault is it when you choose to disregard God and sin? The actions David made were his responsibility alone because he viewed the benefits of sin of greater worth than obeying God. How does temptation so easily entangle us? Satan has spent many years perfecting his craft and we are inherently sinful so we are destined to fail when we look at our inherent inability.Where can hope be found to live in this world plagued by sin? When we acknowledge our sinfulness and trust in God’s forgiveness because of Jesus Christ’s ultimate sacrifice on the cross we have the hope that we crave.
In the midst of God passing judgement upon Israel by sending the angel of the Lord upon Israel we are given a glimpse of the heart of David through his response. “Is it not I who commanded to count the people? Indeed, I am the one who has sinned and done very wickedly, but these sheep, what have they done? O Lord my God, please let Your hand be against me and my father’s household, but not against Your people that they should be plagued.” 1 Chronicles 21:17 David looked upon the people of Israel as sheep that God had given him be shepherd over. The sin was committed by David alone and he desired that God place the burden upon him alone for his actions to spare the sheep that we under his care. The responsibility that David claims is an encouragement and exhortation to all leaders to stand up and take responsibility for past actions and to seek out God as the plans for the future are made. What sheep are under your care? What choice do you make that will have an effect on those sheep for good or bad?
