In Light of the Promise

Reading I Chronicles 17 this morning I was struck by a prayer of David that’s recorded there. Something in it seemed a bit gutsy to me, but upon further inspection I’m feeling a bit more daring myself now.

Speaking to Nathan the prophet, David reveals his desire to build a permanent house for God. Nathan encourages him to do what’s in his heart but later receives a word from the Lord concerning David’s intention. As instructed, Nathan promptly goes to David and tells him of God’s surprising and unexpected response to the plan. As it turns out, God has a building plan of His own for the word that comes to David is,

“…the Lord will build a house for you.”

God proceeds to reveal His intention to establish David’s house, a permanent house, to make David’s name great, and to establish his kingdom to last forever through his son Solomon.  God graciously reveals His will to David concerning His plans, His provision, His promise to bless him and his descendants.

In response, David goes before the Lord and utters a humble, heartfelt prayer. But amongst his expressions of gratitude and wonder at the Lord’s generosity and honor towards him, David is so bold as to speak these words to God…

“…do as Thou hast spoken.“

These words sound somewhat brave (and maybe even a little bossy), and seemingly they are, for David goes on to say,

“…therefore Thy servant hath found courage to pray before Thee.“

Where did he get this courage and boldness? To find out I use this handy Bible study tip: when you see the word “therefore“, find out what it’s there for. David said he “therefore…found courage to pray”. The words prior to “therefore” reveal the reason for his boldness…

“For Thou, O God, hast revealed to thy servant that Thou will build for him a house, therefore…“

There it is…the foundation of his boldness. God had just revealed His will to David. David goes on to say,

“Thou hast promised this good thing to Thy servant.”

It was in light of God’s words of promise to him that David was able to say to God, “…do as Thou hast spoken“.

We, as he, have had God’s will for us revealed….His Word concerning His plans, His provision, His promises to us and to our descendants. So let’s be diligent to go to His Word, find those promises, and therefore find courage to, along with David, say to God…

“Do as Thou hast spoken.”

In light of the promises, in humble prayer, like David, we too can find courage in prayer, courage to be bold… so bold as to hold God to His Word.

You who remind the LORD, take no rest for yourselves. Isaiah 62:6b

Joining Five Minute Friday for this week’s prompt…  HOLD