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  Scripture:

  1Chronicles 27:23-24
  23 David did not count those below twenty years of age, for the Lord had promised to make Israel as numerous as the stars of heaven. 24 Joab son of Zeruiah began to count them, but did not finish; yet wrath came upon Israel for this, and the number was not entered into the account of the Annals of King David.

• Observation:

  
  Here we get a clearer explanation of what is only suggested in 1 Chronicles 21:1-27 (and 2 Sam 24:1-17, for those of you keeping score at home). 
  
  David came up with the bright idea to take a census of all the fighting aged men under his Kingship. His advisors and friends warned him against it, but he issued the order anyway. They were right, he was wrong; for the census garnered the wrath of the LORD. 
  
  The thing is, that story always makes me wonder what exactly David had done wrong? Isn't it normal and/or prudent for leaders to have an up to date account of what resources they have been entrusted to steward? Wouldn't it be good and helpful to know how many subjects you were responsible for as King?
  
  To me, it sounds like the problem was one of over-reaching on David's part. By ordering the census he had taken a step towards viewing his people as raw materials for waging war. Not only that, his action indicated a move away from relying on the LORD to provide the call to arms and all necessary for victory. 
  

  Application:

  
  

  Where do we find ourselves hedging our 

  
  

  bets and developing contingency plans 

  
  

  today? Is God still front and Center in 

  
  

  those plans? 

  
  

  If so, by all means, work to be the best steward you can of those persons and resources entrusted to your care! If not, perhaps you might join David (and me) in some good old fashioned repentance. 

  Prayer:

  LORD, you alone are the source of our security, you alone call us to and authorize us to manage affairs on your behalf. Forgive us when we over-reach and show us how to properly fulfill our kingdom duties. We pray especially today for treasurers and stewardship committees across your church. Be the center of all their deliberations and plans. Amen.