Daily Thought

The background to these words is most interesting. David was resting in his kingship, content that God had given him rest from all surrounding enemies. However, he was disturbed that he dwelt in a cedar house while the ark of the Lord rested in a tent. Nathan told him to do all that was in his heart, vv. 1-3, but God had other plans. In verses 4-17 the prophet gave a wonderful message to the king. David would not build the house, but later his offspring would erect a house for God’s name, and his throne would be established with the kingdom for ever. This vision was explained to the king; it was tremendous and inspiring.

David’s response was immediate. ‘Who am I, O Lord God, and what is my house that thou hast brought me hitherto?’. His unworthiness was deeply felt. God had spoken of blessings to come, and an overwhelming sense of God’s kindness brought him very low. How often does God make us feel this way? True prayer will always remind us that God owes us nothing. Every favour, every grace given is unmerited. ‘Who am I?’ We come empty handed into the presence of our God.

‘Wherefore, thou art great, O Lord God, for there is none like thee’, v. 22. The thoughts of David move from his nothingness to the magnificence of God. History and experience had revealed His ability and power to do great things. This God had made the nation His own people. Such sense of greatness overwhelmed David. Surely, he is nothing and God is all. He is empty but there is fulness with God. Thus, each time we spend in quiet prayer, we do well to meditate on God’s complete sufficiency. We are blessed with every spiritual blessing in the heavenlies in Christ, Eph. 1. 3. Out of His riches in glory, God can supply all our needs, Phil. 4. 19.

‘Therefore now let it please thee to bless’, v. 29. Each day we need to seek fresh blessings from our bountiful God. We dare not try to live on yesterday’s blessing. David felt that God had given far beyond his expectations. Yet His promises made him hungry for more: ‘Do as thou hast said’, v. 25. David was bold in his asking. Be sure today to claim God’s promises! Faith can prove that what He has promised He is able to perform, Rom. 4. 19-21.

Thought: - It is only an empty vessel that can be filled!