David, a Man After God’s HeartMuestra

David was not allowed to build the temple

“Go and tell my servant David, ‘Thus says the Lord: It is not you who will build me a house to dwell in.’” (1 Chronicles 17:4)

David wanted to build a temple as a permanent dwelling place for God. For many years, the people of Israel had traveled in the wilderness and carried a holy tent with them. God Himself had given detailed instructions for the design of this tent. When the Israelites settled in Canaan, the holy tent was first set up in Shiloh. Later we read of priests serving in Nob, and the ark of the covenant was brought to Jerusalem.

David thought it would be better to build a real temple of hewn stone and cedar. We do not read that he asked for the Lord’s guidance in this matter – probably it was just his own idea.

At first, the prophet Nathan was enthusiastic about David’s plans. But that night the Lord told Nathan that David could not build Him a temple. He could only make the preparations and collect materials, but his son would do the actual building.

Undoubtedly, this was a disappointment for David. He had made up such a nice plan, and now he had to step back! But David accepted the Lord’s decision.

Do you ask for God’s guidance before you make plans? And would you accept being told “no”? Have you ever had such an experience?