Charles Ellicott Commentary 2 Samuel 24:10

"And David`s heart smote him after that he had numbered the people. And David said unto Jehovah, I have sinned greatly in that which I have done: but now, O Jehovah, put away, I beseech thee, the iniquity of thy servant; for I have done very foolishly." — 2 Samuel 24:10 (ASV)

David’s heart smote him. —This time David’s own conscience was awakened, without the necessity of being roused, as in the case of Uriah, by the visit of a prophet. He confesses his sin, and prays for pardon. Still, it must be remembered that ten months had passed (2 Samuel 24:8) before David saw his sin.