David ordered Joab, Israel’s army commander to count the mighty men. Joab knew this was wrong. He knew it was the Lord who gives armies strength (3). The Lord enables small armies to defeat large armies. David needed to examine why he wanted to count the number of fighting men (3).
David was either worried or proud. These are self-centered and destructive. Both are motivations outside of love for God and trust in God.
Relying on self is always eventually self-defeating. Having confidence in abilities and opportunities while acknowledging that the Lord gives them is not the same as independent self-confidence. Am I proud of myself or grateful to God?
Worry is related to self-confidence. The two work together like coffee stains on wood. Worry is eventually self-defeating. I trust in God, don’t I? Then why do I worry and fret? Why do I worry about the clothes that I will wear? Why do I worry about the food that I will eat? Why do I worry about the bills that need to be paid? Why do I count?
Jesus taught, “Seek first the kingdom of God, and all these will be given to you as well.” Jesus is the king, not me.
