How does David's approach to Ornan demonstrate humility and respect for God's commands? The Setting: A Plague and a Command “Then the angel of the LORD ordered Gad to tell David to go up and build an altar to the LORD on the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite.” (1 Chronicles 21:18) • Israel is suffering under a divinely-sent plague after David’s census. • God’s answer for stopping the judgment is clear and specific: build an altar on Ornan’s threshing floor. • David’s response to this command sets the stage for how he treats Ornan. Walking in Humility: David Goes in Person “So David went up at the word that Gad had spoken in the name of the LORD.” (1 Chronicles 21:19) • As king, David could have sent servants, soldiers, or emissaries, yet he walks to Ornan himself. • Personal presence communicates humility—he does not hide behind royal privilege. • Compare: Jesus personally came to Zacchaeus’ house (Luke 19:5). Humility often shows up in showing up. Honoring God’s Instrument: Respecting Ornan’s Ownership “As David came to Ornan, Ornan looked out and saw him; and he left the threshing floor and bowed down before David with his face to the ground.” (1 Chronicles 21:21) • Ornan bows, acknowledging David’s authority, but David in turn honors Ornan’s stewardship. • He does not seize property by decree—he requests it. • This mirrors the command, “You shall not covet” (Exodus 20:17) and demonstrates neighbor-love (Leviticus 19:18). • Respect for others’ God-given rights is respect for God Himself. Full-Price Worship: Sacrifice Must Cost “‘Grant me the site of this threshing floor, that I may build an altar to the LORD on it—sell it to me for the full price, so the plague on the people may be stopped.’” (1 Chronicles 21:22) • David insists on paying, refusing a gift that would cheapen the offering. • 2 Samuel 24:24 records the same resolve: “I will not offer to the LORD my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing.” • Genuine worship is costly (Romans 12:1). David’s humility admits he owns nothing that God has not first given. Swift Obedience: Prioritizing God’s Word • David moves immediately—no delay, no debate. • Obedience is the truest respect for God’s commands (John 14:15). • By acting at once, David shows he fears God more than he fears losing royal coffers or public approval. Lessons for Us Today • Approach people personally when God calls you to act; humility travels on foot. • Recognize and honor others’ God-given stewardship; the King of kings does. • Let worship cost you something—time, talent, treasure—so it reflects the worth of the One you worship. • Obey promptly; delayed obedience is practical disobedience. David’s encounter with Ornan is a living illustration of Micah 6:8: “He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?” |
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