THEOSISAmbrose of Milan
When David instructed the counting of the people, he was filled with deep disquiet, and he pleaded with the Lord, saying, “I have sinned greatly in this matter; I ask for Your forgiveness, O Lord, for I have acted foolishly” (2 Sam 24:10). Consequently, the prophet Nathan was sent to him with a choice of three options: a famine lasting three years, fleeing from adversaries for three months, or a plague on the land for three days. David responded, “It is a difficult decision for me, but I would rather fall into the hands of the Lord, whose mercy is immense; just do not let me fall into the hands of men.” David’s error was his desire to know the total number of those with him, a matter he should have entrusted solely to God.
Read more (215 words)
It is also recorded that on the first day, from dawn until the designated hour, the plague struck, and upon witnessing the angel smiting the people, David lamented, “Behold, I have sinned; I have acted unrighteously; and these sheep, what have they done? Let Your hand be against me and my father’s house.” The Lord, seeing the affliction, took pity and commanded the angel to spare the people, instructing David to make a sacrifice; in those days, sacrifices were made for sin, whereas now, we offer sacrifices of contrition. Thus, through his humility, David won God’s favor, for it is common for humans to sin, yet it is indeed shameful if they do not confess their wrongdoings or humble themselves before God.
Therefore, humility is a virtuous act: it rescues those in peril and raises up the fallen. This was exemplified by one who poignantly expressed, “Behold, I have sinned; I have acted wickedly; and these sheep, what have they done? Let Your hand be upon me and my father’s house.” This statement reflects the heart of one who has surrendered his kingdom to God, demonstrated repentance, acknowledged his sin, and sought forgiveness. Through humility, he discovered salvation. Christ humbled Himself to elevate all humanity. Those who emulate Christ’s humility will likewise attain His peace.
There exists a remarkable solution for all the aforementioned concerns, as David is prepared for afflictions (Psalm 37:18) and willingly presents himself to the Lord to endure the trials that are pleasing to Him. It is noted that King David opted for a form of discipline that he could withstand, making a choice among three forms of punishment, as mandated (see 2 Samuel 24:12-14). When the situation does not require a selection, the faithful servant of the Lord stands ready for any challenge: suffering in the flesh, fleeing from adversaries, or facing the loss of his children, which he does not dread, because he is capable of embracing all circumstances without trepidation. He understands that a temporary discipline here may lead to the mitigation of eternal suffering in the hereafter. Thus, he petitions that his plea be granted, and that he bear the repercussions himself to be found acceptable, for the Lord disciplines every son whom He adopts (Hebrews 12:6).