Now when the king lived in his house and the Lord had given him rest from all his surrounding enemies, the king said to Nathan the prophet, “See now, I dwell in a house of cedar, but the ark of God dwells in a tent.” (2 Samuel 7:1-2)
The story of David up to this point is one of a man who is eager to please God. He has not been without fault in his efforts, but those faults are relatively insignificant compared to the overwhelming zeal that David has for the God of his salvation. From shepherd boy to warrior, from fugitive to the anointed and recognised king of Israel in all these developments has expressed an unwavering trust in God.
It is no surprise, then, that we read of David’s sentiments at this juncture. His sentiments are worth exploring now as we’ll consider God’s response later.
Much had happened to the people since God set up his tent to be with his people. From 40 years in the wilderness to the struggle to settle in the Promised Land. From the season of judges to the transition to the king. Israel had undergone significant changes, including in their relationship with God, that would, even at this time, veer from renewed commitment to God, to slipping into serving the gods of their neighbours. Now, Israel had a man after God’s own heart as their king. Now they had a warrior for God in charge. Now God had given them rest.
In this scenario, we’re told that David compares his situation with that of the presence of God as seen in the Ark of the Covenant. David is set in a residence that marks the rule of a king. It’s something fitting of his status, but he notices that the presence of God is not given the rightful level of treatment. What is David’s expressed concern? He wishes to create something that reflects his love for God.
That is something commendable about David, and it tells us where our concern should be. Our idea of flourishing should not see us forgetful of God. Whether in material goods or in the status gained in life, this is never the premise for us to be so grand in our thinking and neglect who put us there and what He requires of us. That’s not just a measure to make it important to remember our God, it’s also a reminder to operate on the desire to do what is pleasing to God, what will bring Him glory, because of the understanding we have that our source is in God and so we’re keen for Him to be established even more than we are.
The challenge for those who follow God in Christ is whether we are more concerned about spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ and expressing the Kingdom of God than about our own security and comfort. Are we touched with a sense in which we acknowledge so much of what God has done for us and continues to do, and thus we’re not caught up with accolades and achievements. We’re far more concerned with pointing things back to God in the light He deserves.
Zeal for the house of God would be something that would bother David and Solomon significantly. Zeal for the house would also be an issue for Jesus. The heart of this issue is about who is getting the glory for the setting. If that isn’t God, then a great question to ask is: Where is He?
For His Name’s Sake
C. L. J. Dryden
Shalom
Life With CD 
Wow, this a great post CD. I wanted to hit ‘Like’ several times, but alas, WordPress doesn’t allow that. While reading, it occurred to me that Life with CD is itself built to please the Most High and bring him glory. Not only is it designed and built to praise and glorify him, but he does actually inhabit it!
And I hear him saying, ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant’.
That is a very weighty observation and blessing to share, Chris. I receive it with joy and thankfulness. I am grateful to God for your continued sensitivity, kindness and generosity. 🙏🏾