Text - 1 Chronicles 21:1
Satan rose up against Israel and incited David to take a census of Israel.
This story gives such an interesting perspective on leadership and service to God. The first verse indicates the origin of the census idea. But there is no record of David consulting with God to get clearance. He just ran with the idea. I assume it's because it sounded reasonable and sensible - Like something God would say.
How often do you and I switch God ideas for good ideas? A relationship? A job? Or a project? The funny thing is that you think as a steward, your actions may not always give you a direct hit. Reading down the whole chapter, you will find that it was not David who bore the brunt of his rash decision. It was Israel. Men were slain by an angel.
So is God mean? No. The world He created was set with laws in motion. Actions = consequences - long before Newton discovered it. There is no escaping the action and reaction principle, that's why Jesus had to die. To balance the equation.
Reading this chapter, I have been challenged to weigh my decisions, my choices, my every move against God's plan. To check-in and never assume. Because if the spirit is not working in that idea, it is just a good thought. And good thoughts are great, they are not just God's best.
Remember, we are priests. What we do affects men. Our counsel matters, who we take advice from matters.