Scripture

Our verse for today comes from 2 Samuel 24:13, ” So Gad came to David and said to him, ‘Shall seven years of famine come to you in your land? Or shall you flee three months before your enemies, while they pursue you? Or shall there be three days’ plague in your land? Now consider and see what answer I should take back to Him who sent me.’ “

Background

Do you want a spanking? ” Who among us has not heard that question asked of a child? Who has not had it roll off their very own lips? I hope not you. But we’ve certainly seen the desperate parent, struggling unsuccessfully to rein in their child while every modest threat to them has fallen on deaf ears. Eventually, all sense and logic is cast aside as they literally ask the misbehaving child if they actually want to be spanked? Presumably, the parent is expecting a contrite ” No ” from the child and a quick change in attitude, and I imagine that occasionally that is the ultimate resolution. There is always the chance that the kid sees the error of his ways and the impending danger of his situation and makes the right choice. But the more likely scenario is the continued power struggle between frustrated and overwhelmed parent and disobedient and unrestrained child. For asking a child to weigh in on their potential discipline communicates far more to a child than the mere fact that they are about to be punished. That scenario, which unfortunately can become a common practice for those who ever begin to use it, informs the child that the authority of the parent has been compromised, and it will now require more than the simple and clear words of the adult to achieve the desired behavior of the youngster. And that road is a downward spiral that never need be travelled. 

Application

God asked David which of three options he wanted for his punishment for administering the ill-advised census, but not because He was at the end of His rope. God’s rope was cut by the cross, even in David’s time. There is no sense of desperation from Him. Every option and opportunity He gives us comes directly from His heart of grace and love. When bad has turned out less so, or your hopes were greatly and wonderfully exceeded, it is all to bring you to your knees in humble adoration of the Savior, who loves you better than any parent ever has or could. 

Charge

As we seek Him today, thank God for the mercies that come to you each day. Look for His hand in everything and everyone you encounter.