Chronicles 21:27 And the LORD commanded the angel, and he put his sword back in its sheath. In the 21st Chapter of Chronicles, David (the king who pulled the tribes together) wanted to count everyone.  It was a census.  For some reason, God didn't want a census.  David counted anyway, except for the tribe of Levi and Benjamin.  But God was still angry about it and in verse 7 he was so displeased he "struck" Israel.  David could have done nothing, but it wasn't his nature.  He goes to God and asks forgiveness.  It is an interesting story.  He buys a threshing floor at full price, grain at full price and makes things right with God.  He doesn't want people to suffer because of what he has done.  He is a king and yet is not too proud to ask forgiveness and do what is needed. Father, forgive me for my sins.  Let no one suffer because of my actions or deeds.  Let me be a blessing.  Let me lead with wisdom.