Insight #1: David sends a delegation to show sympathy for a deceased Ammonite king. The envoy is treated harshly by the Ammonites, so David says, “It’s on!”
He sends Joab, his commander out, and Joab puts a masterful battle strategy in place. Then he speaks these words, “Be strong, and let us fight bravely for our people and the cities of our God. The Lord will do what is good in his sight.” Which reminds me of Proverbs…a book that, ironically, was written after this account in Chronicles.The Proverb states, “The horse is prepared for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the Lord.”
So, in essence, you make the wisest plans you can make. Then God will do His thing.
Insight #2: Chapter 20 gives an account of David’s men killing giants. Everyone knows David killed a giant, but not everyone knows his followers/army could too. Tough dudes.
Insight #3: In chapter 21, God plays the role of genie…sort of. David screws up and calls for a census, which is against the rules established in the law. God tells David He will punish him, but he is allowed to choose the punishment. Three years, three months, or three days. Punishment will come from the hand of men; or it will come from the hand of God. David wisely chooses the punishment of shortest duration, the option that comes from the hand of God. Why? Because he knows the Lord is merciful. “Let me fall into the hands of the Lord, for His mercy is very great; but do not let me fall into human hands.”
Omer Redden 