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Dear Heavenly Father, Praise I praise you today for the Davidic covenant, for it is the glorious promise of a future King who will reign forever (1 Chr 17:13–14). Zechariah, through the Holy Spirit, recognized Jesus as this King: “Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he has visited and redeemed his people and has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David” (Luke 1:68–69). Today in Your Word Today you told me about the covenant you made with David. After you gave David rest from all his enemies, he became concerned that the ark, the symbol of your presence, sat in a tent while he lived in a beautiful palace. David’s desire to build a temple was pleasing to you, but you told him ‘No.’ This teaches me that there will be times when I want to do something good for you, but the timing is wrong or I may not be the one you want to perform the task. David’s willingness to submit to your will is an excellent example of showing deference to your direction. David accepted his part in your plan and did not try to go beyond it. Although you turned down David’s request, you did not reject David himself. In fact, you took the occasion to establish your covenant with him. David wanted to build you a house (a temple), and instead, you promised to build David a house (a dynasty). Not only that, you also promised that his house would last forever! David’s earthly dynasty ended four centuries later, but your Son, Jesus Christ, a direct descendant of David, is the ultimate fulfillment of this promise (Acts 2:22–36). Jesus will reign for eternity. He reigns now in the hearts of your children, and one day He will reign here on earth (Luke 1:30–33; Rev 20:4). David rejoiced in your promise and was humbled at the thought of how you had taken him from following sheep to being the leader of your people. This teaches me that the proper response to your blessing is humility and praise. Reflection David prayed with good intentions, only to have you say ‘No.’ How would I respond if you chose someone else to carry out my own idea? Request Father, remind me that accepting your ‘No’ requires as much faith as obeying your ‘Yes.’ Give me the grace I need to submit my will to yours. Thanksgiving Thank you for the promise of a great King who will rule forever! I say with John, “Even so, come, Lord Jesus!” (Rev 22:20 KJV). In Jesus’ name, Amen. Suggested Hymn: “Praise God the Lord, Ye Sons of Men” — Nikolaus Hermann. Meditation Verse: 2 Samuel 7:25–26.