DAILY READING
REFLECTION
God's Plan is Better
by Pr. Dave Mann
In the verses immediately preceding this passage, King David has been told by God, through Nathan the prophet, that his plan to build a house (a temple) for the Lord is not to happen. His son Solomon will be the builder. (Bummer!) But then the Lord does a play on words. God said, "You want to build me a house (a physical building)? No, but I will build you a house (a dynasty).” Curiously, both the Hebrew word (bayith) and the English word (house) have a similar scope in meaning to include a dwelling place and descendants.
The king is not irritated that he will not have the privilege of building the temple; rather, he is honored that God’s plan of building a house for him is better. Today’s text is David’s prayer of gratitude. Notice the heartfelt attitude of gratitude. When God says “No” to your plan, look for his better plan to emerge.
The classic Gospel song by André Crouch, My Tribute, exemplifies the deep appreciation that God does so much for us, even if his plan appears to say “No” to our initial plan.
How can I say thanks, for the things you have done for me – Things so undeserved, yet you gave to prove your love for me. The voices of a million angels could not express my gratitude. All that I am and ever hoped to be, I owe it all to thee. To God be the glory (3x) for the things he has done. With his blood he has saved me, with his power he has raised me To God be the glory for the things he has done.
Just let me live my life, let it be pleasing, Lord, to thee And should I gain any praise, let it go to Calvary
With his blood he has saved me, with his power he has raised me To God be the glory for the things he has done.
Listen and worship. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n5CNJzVjAb8
PRAYER PRACTICE
Thank you, Sovereign Lord, that in your grace you have said “No” to so many of my plans, but you have instead given me much more than I could ever have asked or dreamed. Amen
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