2 Samuel 7:1-17; 1 Chronicles 22:6-10
One of the last conversations that David had with Solomon his son was about his fondest unfulfilled desire. David was a godly man who loved his Savior God, and he wanted to honor him in the best way he knew how—building a temple for his Lord which would be the source of envy and awe for all the world.
Let’s take this story step-by-step and see what we can learn from it, shall we? David knew that the Lord deserved a much better “house” than the tent which'd been covering his Ark for several centuries. He thought it wrong that he lived in a palace of cedar (the finest wood available) while God “lived” in a tent. Of course, David knew his theology too well to believe that the Lord was really restricted to that tent. But as the dwelling place for the Ark of the Covenant, it was the official meeting place between God and man. David believed that the God of Israel deserved much better.
So he proposed to his resident prophet Nathan his plans, and the man of God put his stamp of approval on them. That night, the Lord intervened and told the prophet to tell the king to change his course. And per usual, David listened to the word of the Lord and obeyed.
Here are some lessons we can learn. Numerous people have asked me, “How do I know the will of God? I know about his general will for everyone; I know it’s not his will for me to steal, lie, or cheat on my wife. But what about things that aren’t addressed specifically in the Bible?” My response: Relax! Are you doing what you know God wants you to do? Are there any areas of habitual disobedience? Do you truly desire to honor, please, and obey your Savior? Then don’t worry so much about less important issues like which college to attend, or which job to take. Here’s why.
David had a good desire, namely to build a temple for the Lord. However, the Lord had other plans. So it’s entirely possible to desire a good thing which is not in accord with God’s will. But here’s the good news. If you’re doing what you know you’re supposed to be doing, then if you’re heading in the wrong direction, God will change your direction! Do you really think he wouldn’t? Do you think he wants you to stumble around in the dark? Or even worse, do you really think he'd blame you for going in the wrong direction if he held back specific guidance from you?
So here are two simple hurdles on getting God’s guidance. First, make sure you’re being obedient to his clearly revealed will. Second, make sure you’re spending time listening to what God has to say, both in your TAWG and as a part of the Body of Christ. When the Holy Spirit points out something to you that needs cleansing, ask for forgiveness and repent. This ain’t rocket science, folks.
Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
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