SUMMARY: Stubborn
OVERVIEW: David doesn’t listen to Joab and takes a census of his army, a sign of pride and a lack of trust in God. It takes more than nine months, but David later repents and establishes an altar on the future temple site.
BIG IDEA: Obey God, or be quick to confess your sin.
KEY VERSE: 2 Samuel 24:10 (David’s prayer)
But after he had taken the census, David’s conscience began to bother him. And he said to the Lord, “I have sinned greatly by taking this census. Please forgive my guilt, Lord, for doing this foolish thing.”
IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
Stubbornness serves you well when you commit to follow me and never stop doing so. Follow me and find freedom, purpose, and joy. Don’t let others distract you. The enemy will see you as a prime target and will encourage others to invite you to follow them. Stay focused on me and my plan. So “no” to their invitation and run from temptation. Run towards me and be safe.
However, when you choose to live independently—and ignore me—you are unwise. When your stubbornness dictates your way is the right way, you may enjoy your choice for a season, but it won’t last. But you are never stuck. I always provide an alternative. Each time you turn from me, I invite you to return. When you go astray, don’t live in frustration. Come back to me! My invitation never goes away. Open your eyes and see it, open your hands and receive it, and open your heart and embrace it. I love you and welcome you home.
NEXT STEP
Keep a short account of your sin. Be quick to confess so that you don’t become comfortable with your sin. Ask God to search your heart and to reveal and ways in which you have said “no” to God’s way and “yes” to yours.
LYRIC VIDEO
BONUS Video Clip