Working The System?
But God was displeased with this thing, and he struck Israel. And David said to God, "I have sinned greatly in that I have done this thing. But now, please take away the iniquity of your servant, for I have acted very foolishly." And the Lord spoke to Gad, David's seer, saying, "Go and say to David, 'Thus says the Lord, Three things I offer you; choose one of them, that I may do it to you.'"
1 Chronicles 21:7-10 (ESV)
1 Chronicles 21:7-10 (ESV)
David confessed but did not repent. Strangely, he seemed to be trying to work the system. He disobeyed God and now wanted to do this confession thing, claim God's mercy, and carry on like it never happened. Nice try.
Confession was never meant to be a manipulation tool; it is something that needs to flow from a broken and contrite heart. David would soon have a broken heart, and God would forgive him, but the loss in the process will be devastating.
All those who want loopholes rather than love will be disappointed. It is best to obey God or face the scars that will forever remind us of our stubbornness.
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