I Samuel 13:15
“Then Samuel left Gilgal and went up to Gibeah in Benjamin, and Saul counted the men who were with him. They numbered about six hundred.”
Saul just received disastrous news. God took away his kingly right. He was wounded, but would take decades to finally be removed from the position. He was focused on himself and his kingdom. That’s what prompted him to disobey by not waiting for Samuel (and the Lord).
Today’s passage has him numbering his fighting force. Normally, this would be practical, but not for Israel. The underlying reason is that they relied on physical might, instead of the Lord.
David numbered his army and was punished for it. In 2 Samuel 24:3, Joab (his general) warns David against this. He knew it was an affront to the Lord. He didn’t listen and continued with the census. The nation was judged for this. David repented and didn’t repeat it.
Numbering his army was the second transgression of his reign. He was developing a pattern of self reliance and a lack of trust in God. We all fall into this from time to time. The Lord brings this to our attention. Sometimes through our consciences or through anothers comment. Maybe several circumstances are blocked which can cause us to pause and look up.
Once He’s got our attention, we ask what to do. Maybe we ask for assistance or power to change. We may need to apologize and repent. The Lord provides these course corrections. Our participation is what demonstrates our submission to His lordship.
What a privledge to live in loving interaction with the Lord. It was the purpose of our creation. He wants to have a relationship with us. This is how we get to know Him. We come with many preconceptions. Some have parent wounds which we project onto Him. This person may have been raised with disapproval. So, internal reactions may contain fear and anxiety.
As we are taught the bible and read His Word, we learn of Him. Matthew 11:29 says, “Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” We learn that He is gentle and humble in heart. These experiences transform us. Wounds are healed.
Lord, thank You that You interrupt as we seek to go our own way. Thank You that You gently lead and heal us.