READING: 2 Samuel 24:1-9, 1 Chronicles 21:1-6, 2 Samuel 24:10-17, 1 Chronicles 21:7-17, 2 Samuel 24:18-25, 1 Chronicles 21:18–22:19
All of us need someone in our life who has permission and courage to challenge us when we’re leaning in the wrong direction. Our spouse ought to be one of those persons, but I’m convinced we also need someone of the same gender with the same access to our life. We need someone who best understands our temptations but who has also so earned our respect that we welcome a hard word from this person.
In today’s reading, Joab tried to play that role in David’s life. David had determined to take a census of his people—a census likely to determine the strength of his military forces. David apparently wanted to know the power of his kingdom. In that request, he revealed his leaning toward trusting in himself and in his forces more than in trusting God who was his warrior. Joab recognized the problem and challenged the king not to take that step, lest David bring judgment on the nation: “Why then should my lord require this? Why should it be a cause of guilt for Israel?” (1 Chron 21:3). Nevertheless, David ignored this proactive confrontation—and the nation suffered.
It is unwise not to have someone like Joab who speaks into our lives. It is equally problematic to ignore the guidance of someone who does wisely seek to protect us from your own faulty decisions.
PERSONAL REFLECTION: Is there someone in your life who has this access to you?
TODAY’S PRAYER: “Father, give me that person, and grant me wisdom to listen.”
TOMORROW’S READING: 1 Chronicles 23:1-25:31
