April 24th~Honor for Honor

2 Samuel 7:1-17


1 Chronicles 17:1-15

2 Samuel 7:18-29


1 Chronicles 17:16-27

2 Samuel 8:1-14


1 Chronicles 18:1-13

Psalm 60

David made plans to build a Temple for the Lord. Remember, in yesterday’s reading, that he had the Ark of the Covenant moved to Jerusalem. He felt guilty for living in a luxurious house, when the Lord dwelled in a tent.

After he expressed his desires to the prophet Nathan, Nathan communicated God’s response. He said, “I have never lived in a temple, from the day I brought the Israelites out of Egypt until now. My home has always been a tent, moving from one place to another; and, I have never once complained to Israel’s leaders... I have never asked them, ‘Why haven’t you built me a beautiful cedar temple’” (2 Samuel 7:6, 7). In essence, God was saying that, while David’s desire was noble and his plans pleased the Lord, it was unnecessary to build a temple for Him. He was content just to be among His people, the people of the covenant.

However, the Lord continued His message to David saying, “I have been with you wherever you have gone, and I have destroyed all of your enemies. Now, I will make your name famous throughout the earth!” He went on, “The Lord also declares to you that He will build a house for you — a dynasty of kings! For when you die, I will raise up one of your descendants and I will make his kingdom strong. He is the one who will build a house — a temple — for My name; and, I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. Your dynasty and kingdom will continue for all time before Me...” (2 Samuel 7:9, 12, 13).

Of course, this covenant is referring to the reign of the Messiah to come, Jesus Christ. It was prophesied of Him that “the government would rest on His shoulders and of His kingdom there would be no end...” (Isaiah 9:6, 7). Then, when Jesus was born, it was said that “He would reign on the throne of David and over the house of Jacob forever” (Luke 1:32, 33). What a wonderful promise that God was faithful to keep.

Daily Reflection

What I love about God’s response to David is that He is not so much honored by what we do for Him, like building a Temple, but that we desire to honor Him. I also love the fact that God says, in essence, “Because you desire to honor Me, David, I will honor you.” Several times after this intimate time with God, the Scriptures tell us that “the Lord helped David wherever he went.”

It is true, when you honor God, God will honor you. He is not impressed with what you can do or are doing for Him (how can He be impressed), but rather God is honored by your desire to glorify Him. Do you desire to honor the Lord? Are you “building a house” for Him, a place where God is glorified — in your home, in your heart? How are you honoring the Lord?

Did you notice how David responded to God’s blessings? “Who am I,” he said, “that you have brought me this far? What can I say, for you know what I am really like” (7:18-20). David did not respond in arrogance or boastfulness but in humility. How have you responded to God’s blessings in your life? It is humility that honors God, seeing yourself in light of His greatness; and, to the extent that you honor Him, may He honor you. “...For those who honor Me, I will honor; but those who despise Me will not be esteemed” (1 Samuel 2:30).

BiAY.org | Day 114 — 251 Days to Go