In the history of Israel, an incident involving King David reveals the complex interplay between divine will and adversarial influence. Satan stood up against Israel and moved David to number the people, as recorded in I Chronicles 21:1-2, where David instructed Joab and the leaders to count Israel from Beersheba to Dan. Similarly, II Samuel 24:1-2 states that the anger of the LORD was aroused against Israel, and He moved David to order the census of Israel and Judah, directing Joab to count the tribes from Dan to Beersheba. The accounts present an apparent discrepancy, with one attributing the instigation to Satan and the other to the LORD. It is possible to understand that both were involved, with God ultimately responsible, allowing Satan to act within set parameters. This dual involvement mirrors other instances where God's sovereignty operates through adversarial forces to accomplish His will. The numbering itself was not inherently sinful, as censuses had been conducted before and after this event. However, David's motivation was problematic. The census focused on military strength, described as counting valiant men who drew the sword, indicating a reliance on national might rather than trust in God. This self-reliance, possibly tinged with selfish ambition or presumption, reflected a heart not fully submitted to God, especially following previous challenges to his authority and reputation. David's sin existed in his heart before the census, rooted in thoughts of personal strength and ambition. God, looking on the heart, knew David's state and moved him to conduct the census, bringing the underlying sin into the open for recognition and healing. God did not cause David to sin but allowed the manifestation of what was already present. God's anger, noted as being aroused against Israel again, may connect to prior unresolved issues in David's leadership. When the census results were returned after over nine months, David realized his error and sought God's mercy. Given a choice of punishment, David deferred to God, who sent a plague that killed 70,000 Israelites, the greatest loss of life in Israel to that point. Even Jerusalem faced destruction until God restrained the destroying angel. David acknowledged his guilt, pleading for the innocent sheep of Israel, yet God's judgment fell on the nation, demonstrating that one representative's sin can affect many. In response, David built an altar and made offerings, including burnt and peace offerings, indicating a rededication to God and a desire to restore fellowship with Him. Through His mercy, God opened the way for David's restoration at the future site of the Temple.