Quiet contemplation in a time of rest, David made a quality decision that God must have the best as a dwelling place. David's leisure time on this occasion was rightly taken up with ministry to the Lord, and spent in the company of a prophet. Would that it were always so. This example we should keep before us. The prophet Nathan encouraged David's spiritual desires. The good, filling the heart, needs to be fleshed out in good deeds.

The Lord gave the prophet Nathan a message for David, who wanted to build a temple for the Lord as a place for His throne (the ark), and where His people could worship Him.

Nathan told David:- "He was not to build the Lord a house (temple); rather the Lord would build David a house (dynasty). Chapter 7 announces the Lord's promise that this Davidic dynasty would endure forever ... Also describes the establishment of the Davidic covenant (Psalm 89:34-37 ), a covenant that promises ultimate victory over the evil one through the offspring of Eve (Genesis 3:15 ). This promise which had come to be focussed on Shem and his descendants (Genesis 9:26-27 ); then on Abraham and his descendants (Genesis 12:2-3; 13:16; 15:5 ); and then on Judah and his (royal ) descendants (Genesis 49:8-11 ); is now focussed specifically on a royal family of David. Later the prophets make clear that a descendant of David who sits on David's throne will perfectly fulfil the role of the theocratic King. He will complete the redemption of God's people (Isaiah 9:6-7; 11:1-16; Jeremiah 23:5-6; 30:8-9; 33:14-16; Ezekiel 34:23-24; 37:24-25 ). Thus enabling them to achieve the promised victory with Him (Romans 16:20 )." N.I.V. Study Bible

2 Samuel 7:18 "Then King David went in and sat before the Lord; and he said: "Who am I, O Lord God? And what is my house, that You have brought me this far?"

David manifested deep humility in the awesome presence of God. He was nothing in his own eyes - had nothing to merit that he be chosen - all was great grace. He was lost in wonderment (2 Samuel 7:20-21 ) of the same grace we are partakers:

Ephesians 1:7,9 "In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; ⁹ Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: "

David extols the special goodness of God (2 Samuel 7:22-24 ), then stands by faith on the amazing promise of God: "Do as You have said" (2 Samuel 7:25 ). All David now wanted was for God to be glorified (2 Samuel 7:26-27 ).

"It is by turning God's promises into petitions that they are turned into performances." Matthew Henry

God uses those overwhelmed by His grace and greatness to accomplish His purposes.

The victories in this chapter show how the kingdom was extended through the favour and blessing of God. He captured Metheg ammah, completing his victory over the Philistines. He subjected the cruel Moabites. Completely outfought and overcame the Syrians. Took vast spoils.

2 Samuel 8:13 "And David made himself a name ..."

David acknowledged the victories belonged to the Lord - so did the silver and gold, which he dedicated it to the Lord. These treasures were later used by Solomon for the building of the temple. Just as the foes of David were subdued and the kingdom enlarged, so the Greater than a David, David's Lord will subdue all foes and will make them His footstool, and He will reign without rival. Some of David's grandest psalms were composed during these years, like Psalms 2, 20, 21, 60, 61. Now the heathen rage - the kingdoms are moved - but the day of the Lord is at hand.

2 Samuel 9:3 "... Is there not still someone of the house of Saul, to whom I may show the kindness of God? ..."

David wanted to show the kindness such as God shows - for Jonathan's sake.

"The Hebrew word HESED, used about 250 times in the O. T. (translated kindness and lovingkindness) means loyal, steadfast, or faithful love and stresses the idea of a belonging together of those involved in the love relationship." Ryrie

For Jonathan's sake David in kindness to Mephibosheth his crippled son - restored his property and provided for his physical needs, and treated him as a member of the royal family. David so succeeded in showing the lovingkindness of God, that we have a beautiful illustration of God's wonderful grace to us because of our heavenly Jonanath, Jesus. We have been accepted in the Beloved (Ephesians 1:6 ). Are you looking for opportunities to show God's lovingkindness?

David's kindness to Hanun king of the Ammonites was treated with contempt. The outrage on David's servants left no choice but war. Hanun marshalled a strong, menacing confederacy which was defeated, and further kingdoms were added to David's dominion. Now his rule seems to have extended to the Euphrates, fulfilling God's original promise to Abraham (Genesis 15:19 ). God still acts today in giving victory over those who actively shame His people - and uses the situation to extend His kingdom.

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QUESTIONS FOR GROUP INTERACTION

1. Is there something you zealously desire to do for God? (2 Samuel 7:1-2 ).
2. Can most decisions be made on Scriptural knowledge of God's will and zealous desire to honour Him? (2 Samuel 7:3 ).
3. Are you open to receive corrective communication from God? (2 Samuel 7:4 ).
4. Why was David not allowed to build a temple? What covenant did God make with David? (2 Samuel 7:5-17 ).
5. How was David affected by the prophetic revelation? ( 2 Samuel 7:18-19 ).
6. As a recipient of God's favour and blessing, are you experiencing victories that glorify God? (2 Samuel 8:1-18 ).
7. To what purpose would you put wealth given to you by God? ( 2 Samuel 8:10-11 ).
8. To whom can you show kindness for your Lord's sake? (2 Samuel 9:1-13 ).
9. Do you permit believers or the Lord to show kindness to them? (2 Samuel 10:1-5 ).
10. Will God take action against those who shame His people? (2 Samuel 10:6-14 ).
11. Can you show how situations today, caused by the enemy, can be made into opportunities to extend His kingdom? (2 Samuel 10:15-19 ).