David-I'd Like to Build a Temple

By Mary Vee
II Samuel 7

From David's Journal

courtesy of Christianimagesresource.com

The city of Jerusalem has been designated my home and the place where I will rule the Hebrew people as their king. 

With God's direction and power we've conquered the Philistines in two large battles. They've pretty much left us alone.

My home has been built and my men have settled comfortably into dwellings with their families. 

It took two attempts to bring the Ark of God to Jerusalem. That was my fault. I didn't respect God's commands the first time. Nonetheless, the Ark now rests in the Tabernacle, a temporary temple until one could be built. 

I wanted to show my love for God by building a grand temple. All of Israel would be able to come to it to worship the Almighty and bring their sacrifices. I must admit, though, many ideas pop in my head, but I've learned to ask God before I start. 

I sent for Nathan the prophet to discuss the temple. "Here I am, living in a palace made of exquisite cedar, and the Ark of God is placed in a tent of curtains. It's just not right. I'd like to build a temple for God."

Nathan rubbed his beard and I think I saw a glimmer in his eye. He said, "Okay, David. Whatever you have in mind, do it. The Lord God is with you."

But the same night, the Lord appeared to Nathan and talked to him about my idea. He gave the prophet a message to bring me. The next morning Nathan requested to speak with me.

"David, the Lord spoke with me last night about your idea to build a temple."

He looked a bit sad, like he was about to give bad news. I braced myself. "Yes?"

"He said these words: 'Are you the one to build me a house to dwell in? I have not dwelt in a house from the day I brought the Israelites up out of Egypt to this day. I have been moving from place to place with a tent as my dwelling. Wherever I have moved with all the Israelites did I ever say to any of their rulers whom I commanded to take care of my people Israel, "Build me a house of cedar?"'

"The Lord also said to tell you this, 'I took you from the pasture and from following the flock to be ruler over my people, Israel. I have been with you wherever you have gone, and fought off your enemies from before you. Now I will make you a great name, and I will provide a great place for my people Israel. The wicked won't oppress them anymore, and I will give you rest from all your enemies.'

"He also said to tell you this, 'When your days are over, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you. He is the one who will build a house for my Name. I will be his father, and he will be my son. When he does wrong I will punish him. But my love will never be taken away from him. Your house will endure forever before me; your throne will be established forever.'"

I hardly knew what to say. He has blessed me so much! My son will be able to build a tempe for God. I had to go and thank the Lord myself. I will share that next time.

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1. What all had David completed with God's power to this date.
2. What did David want to do?
3. Who did he call to discuss the problem?
4. What did Nathan say?
5. That night who spoke with Nathan?
6. What did God tell Nathan to say to David?
7. How did David respond?