Bible portion: 2 Samuel 7
After the king had settled into his palace and the LORD had given him rest from all his enemies around him…
2 Samuel 7:1-15
The story of David (the beloved) is a complete guide to receiving God’s goodness with open arms. There is grace written over every phase of the king’s life. He might not have been the tallest, smartest, or most handsome of men, yet God was always by his side. At this point, David is at the peak of his military achievements. God conquered his enemies for him, and now it’s time for David to repay.
David’s plan to please God
It’s amusing how we can even think of repaying God’s great love and commitment. The one who didn’t even spare His own Son but gave Him up to save us, can we ever outdo Him?
David’s plan to build a temple for God isn’t actually bad, yet his purpose doesn’t completely justify his intended action. He has a heart for the ark of God, and yet, it’s more like “God has prospered me, so I want to do something in return.” In a way, he wants to please God with his works!
God’s reply to David conveyed through Nathan is truly humbling yet endearing: (vs. 8-9)
I took you from the pasture, from following the flock, to be the ruler over My people Israel. 9 I have been with you wherever you have gone, and I have cut off all your enemies from before you. Now I will make for you a name like the greatest in the land.
The message is clear:
Our God needs no reward/ repayment. He is a loving Father with a generous heart who awaits the prodigal’s return every day.
(vs. 14-16) When he does wrong, I will discipline him with the rod of men and with the blows of the sons of men. 15 But My loving devotion will never be removed from him…16Your house and kingdom will endure forever before Me, and your throne will be established forever.”
God already knew what David and his sons would do in the following chapters- murder, theft, and adultery would just be the beginning of centuries of bloodshed and chaos. Yet He promises to be with him and establish His reign forever.
Truly there is no one like our Abba, the God of the last, the least, and the lost.
