Check Your Intentions

Jola Speaks

2 Samuel 24:1-2
“Again the anger of the LORD burned against Israel, and he incited David against them, saying, ‘Go and take a census of Israel and Judah.’ So the king said to Joab and the army commanders with him, ‘Go throughout the tribes of Israel from Dan to Beersheba and enroll the fighting men, so that I may know how many there are.’”
In this passage, David, Israel's king, orders a census of the fighting men in the nation. At first glance, counting the people doesn’t seem like a sinful act. After all, knowing the size of your army could help with planning and governance. However, David's trusted commander, Joab, questions the king's motive (v. 3). He perceives that David’s desire for the census is driven not by a need for better leadership but by pride and self-reliance.
God's response to David’s action reveals that the issue wasn’t the census itself but the intentions behind it. By counting his soldiers, David sought to place his confidence in numbers rather than in God, who had always been the source of Israel’s victories.
Lessons for Us:
Examine Your Heart:
Before making decisions or taking actions, ask yourself, Why am I doing this? Are you motivated by pride, fear, or a desire for control? Or are you acting out of obedience to God and faith in His guidance?
Avoid the Trap of Self-Reliance:
David’s census was a subtle act of replacing trust in God with trust in human strength. How often do we rely on our abilities, resources, or plans instead of seeking God’s direction and provision?
Be Open to Correction:
Joab’s hesitation was a warning for David to reconsider his intentions. When trusted people in your life question your motives, take time to reflect instead of brushing their concerns aside.
God Sees the Heart:
While people may focus on outward actions, God looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7). Your intentions matter as much as, if not more than, your actions. Let every decision be rooted in humility, faith, and a desire to glorify God.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us to check our intentions. Search our hearts and reveal any pride, fear, or self-reliance. Help us to trust You fully in all that we do. May our motives and actions always bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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