I Chronicles 18-20  " And the Lord helped David wherever he went."  ( 18:6; 13)  David became a great king with victory after victory. He faced every challenge and encouraged his people to do the same.  He continually honored the Lord and the Lord blessed him and all of Israel because of it. 

Yet, we know that David failed to be perfect. Just like us.  "Then Satan stood up against Israel and moved David to number Israel." ( 21:1)   This census was not commanded by the Lord.  It was all David's idea and even Joab was against it. Because of this sin against God, David was given a choice  of three judgements - 3 years of famine, 3 months of defeat against his enemies, or 3 days "the sword of the Lord". David chose "the hand of the Lord, for His mercies are very great.." 

70,000 men of Israel fell.  The angel of the Lord stood over Jerusalem with His sword drawn to destroy it. But, God stopped Him.  It is at this spot that David, after purchasing the land, built an altar. It is at this spot that the future temple would be built. It is at this spot.. on Mount Moriah, where Abraham had once stood, prepared to sacrifice his son Isaac.  

Father, we don't always understand why things happen the way they do, but we believe, like David,  that You always have mercy on us when we trust in You.  I'm so thankful that Your mercies are new every morning! As Your Word says.. "Surely my soul remembers and is bowed down within me. This I recall to my mind, therefore I have hope. The Lord's lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail. they are new every morning; Great is Thy faithfulness." ( Lamentations 3:21-23)  We hope in You, Lord God.  You are our portion. You are good.  You are merciful.  I pray for Your "new mercies" this morning.. for those who are suffering, for those who are weary, and for those who have no hope.  We put our trust in You, Lord, knowing that You will bring perfect peace to those who keep their minds on You. Help us to do just that today, please Lord. Great are You Lord and greatly to be praised! Amen.