1 Chronicles 21: When the Shepherd Gets It Wrong
- Kami Pentecost
- Oct 2
- 2 min read
“Was it not I who commanded the people to be numbered? I am the one who has sinned and done evil indeed; but these sheep, what have they done? Let Your hand, I pray, O Lord my God, be against me and my father’s house, but not against Your people that they should be plagued.”1 Chronicles 21:17 NKJV
Here we go. OH boy! David had made the call to take a census—something that might look like like leadership on the surface but was rooted in pride, self-reliance and misplaced trust. Sadly his
people suffered because of his decision, and David Immeditely understood the weight of his decision. His decisions didn't just affect him, they affected those he influenced and cared for too. He called the people “sheep” and in the NIV translation actally refeerred to himself as a Shephard (which he defininely was and had been since a young age. He literally begs God not to let them carry the weight of his mistake.
This has me really thinking a bit about the weight of the calling of the Leader. The Pastor. The Teacher! Leadership isn’t just about the spotlight moments, recognition and following. It Is definitely that AND the reality that our choices, good or bad, ripple out into the lives of others.
Scripture makes it clear that teachers, pastors, leaders will be held to a higher standard (James 3:1). Not only because God says so, but also because influence naturally magnifies impact.
Sometimes the weight leaders carry isn’t only discipline from God—it’s the inevitable fallout of decisions that affect more than just us. That’s the “mess” of shepherding.
You can’t separate the privilege of guiding people from the responsibility that comes with it.
I’m realizing more and more that being in any role of influence—whether as a parent, mentor, coach, or friend—isn’t about getting it all right. It’s about humility. It’s about owning it when I get it wrong and interceding for the ones who may feel the effects of my choices. David’s response Is such a great example: true shepherding isn’t about protecting my image, it’s about protecting the flock.
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