Biblical Context:
The account of David choosing pestilence as a form of divine judgment is found in 2 Samuel 24 and 1 Chronicles 21. This event occurs during the latter part of King David's reign over Israel. The narrative highlights themes of sin, repentance, and God's mercy, illustrating the complex relationship between divine sovereignty and human responsibility.

Background:
The incident begins with David's decision to conduct a census of Israel and Judah. This act, while seemingly administrative, was viewed as a sin against God. The text suggests that David's motivation was rooted in pride and a reliance on military strength rather than trust in God. In 2 Samuel 24:1, it is stated, "Again the anger of the LORD burned against Israel, and He incited David against them, saying, 'Go, take a census of Israel and Judah.'"

Divine Judgment:
After the census is completed, David's conscience is stricken, and he acknowledges his sin before God. In response, God sends the prophet Gad to offer David a choice of three punishments: three years of famine, three months of fleeing from enemies, or three days of pestilence. David's response is recorded in 2 Samuel 24:14 : "David answered Gad, 'I am deeply distressed. Please, let us fall into the hands of the LORD, for His mercies are great; but do not let me fall into the hands of men.'"

The Pestilence:
David chooses the pestilence, preferring to rely on God's mercy rather than human cruelty. The Lord sends a plague upon Israel, resulting in the death of 70,000 men. The severity of the pestilence underscores the seriousness of David's sin and the collective responsibility of the nation. However, it also sets the stage for divine mercy and intervention.

Divine Mercy and Intercession:
As the angel of the Lord stretches out his hand to destroy Jerusalem, God relents from the calamity. In 2 Samuel 24:16 , it is written, "But when the angel stretched out his hand to destroy Jerusalem, the LORD relented from the calamity and said to the angel who was destroying the people, 'Enough! Withdraw your hand now!'"

David, seeing the destruction, intercedes on behalf of the people, acknowledging his sin and pleading for the punishment to fall upon him and his family instead. This act of intercession is a pivotal moment, demonstrating David's role as a shepherd-king who bears responsibility for his people.

The Altar at Araunah's Threshing Floor:
Following the cessation of the plague, David is instructed to build an altar to the Lord on the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite. This site, purchased by David, becomes a place of sacrifice and worship, symbolizing reconciliation and the restoration of the relationship between God and His people. The altar at Araunah's threshing floor is significant, as it later becomes the location for Solomon's Temple.

Theological Implications:
The narrative of David choosing pestilence highlights several key theological themes. It underscores the gravity of sin and the necessity of repentance. It also illustrates the tension between divine justice and mercy, as God both judges and relents. David's choice to fall into the hands of the Lord reflects a deep trust in God's character, emphasizing His compassion even in judgment.

This account serves as a reminder of the importance of humility and reliance on God, rather than human strength or numbers. It also foreshadows the ultimate intercession and sacrifice of Christ, who bears the sins of humanity and restores the broken relationship between God and His people.