A Talented Crown

Have you ever noticed and wondered why God dealt so aggressively with David after he numbered Israel in the book of 1st Chronicles 21?


The scripture records that 70,000 men were killed by God as a result of David's sin in this passage. I don't know about you, but when I come across this kind of story, it bothers me greatly. As I ask a loving, perfect, honest God to help me understand, I am compelled to seek the answers with an open mind until I find the message that God was trying to convey.


A look at the text reveals that Satan enticed David to number Israel; David's pride was his downfall here. Left unchecked and unpunished, pride will always eventually spread like cancer and lead to rejection by God.


David's sin has already begun to threaten his kingdom; the leader has neglected spiritual battles for a lifestyle of indulgence and ease. David's commander Joab and his nephew Jonathan are fighting while David is committing adultery. They are the ones conducting the battle, while David is "overseeing" from afar. But yet another situation in David's life continues to demonstrate his arrogant attitude.


In I Chronicles 20, Joab brings David the crown of the Ammonite king he had just conquered. This crown, the scripture says, weighed one talent, or 75 pounds!


Can you imagine wearing a 75 pound crown on your head? What was David thinking? He had become far too consumed with his own position and authority.


David had forgotten what made him great. Do you remember what he said just prior to killing Goliath? First "You come to me with a sword and with a spear and with a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts . . . ."


But now, in his pride, David believes that his outward appearance, the wearing of a great crown, signifying his great authority, will give him honor in the sight of God and his people. God--in his severe judgment--cuts David back down to size. Only then can he be fitted with the humility and the courageous faith that once made him great. God trying to cut him back down to size was really an act of mercy.


God help us to remember, we are but vessels in the hands of the master potter. HE is the one that deserves the glory, not us! Anything we are, is the result of HIS grace!


Just some rambling thoughts on a beautiful Labor Day morning!


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