WHEN GOD SPOILS OUR GODLY DESIRES
We are familiar with God’s desire for Christians to maintain a right heart attitude in all situations. David was an outstanding example. He maintained a good attitude towards God and towards others in both favourable circumstances and in midst of great difficulties. Many of us will know the stories (detailed in 1 Samuel 18 – 26) of how David treated King Saul with the utmost respect even when King Saul was giving him none and attempting to kill him.
When humans offend us in our sojourn on this earth, we may feel upset but, many times we manage to overcome this and keep a right attitude by God’s grace. But what happens when God is the One Who spoils your godly desires?
One of the most interesting episodes in David’s life occurred when he wanted to build a house for God (recounted in 2 Samuel 7). This was a very honourable intention. He could not tolerate a situation where he lived in a magnificent house made of the luxurious cedar wood whereas the presence of God indwelling the ark of the covenant was housed in a mere tent. The prophet Nathan had an immediate response, probably propelled by natural thinking. He confirmed with David to go ahead and build the house for God.
But what was God’s reaction? David’s wonderful intentions were rejected by God for reasons that were not his own doing. God said that David would not build Him a house because he had shed too much blood (1 Chronicles 28:3).
David could have felt snubbed by God or considered God unfair for various reasons:
- The bloodshed referred to did not come from his initiative. Israel was surrounded by many unfriendly nations, including the Philistines. David was chosen as king of Israel by Almighty God. It was not even his own choice to become a king as he had carved out for himself a career as a shepherd. One of his kingly duties was to protect the Israelites and to lead the armies to war against the enemies. David shed blood while walking according to the plans of God!
- On various occasions he consulted God before going out to war (2 Samuel 5:19, 23). He was definitely in God’s will when he marched out with his armies to war.
That was what happened to David. It was common for him to want to do his best for God. All our fellow Christians would be encouraged and astounded if we declare that we will give to the church building fund a sum equal to the cost of our own house. But God did not seem to want David’s offering.
What happens when God says “no” to our best intentions?
Some of us may pout and get upset with God. Others may quietly disengage ourselves from God’s work, if not in every sphere, at least in the area where God seemingly rejected us. But David kept a sweet spirit before God, nonetheless. We can learn much from David’s reaction and subsequent actions.
- David was willing to do his utmost to support another person to build the temple. (1 Chronicles 29:2).
- In addition to national treasures, David contributed great personal wealth to build the temple. Put into perspective, the gold from the personal treasures that he contributed would be worth around US$ 3 billion today.
- He had a long line of descendants who remained as kings. Through David’s lineage, Jesus came into this world.
- David was given the plans to build the temple (1 Chronicles 28:11-19). He saw the temple, in all its magnificence, in his spirit and mind. Hence, although David did not physically build the temple and had the pleasure of commemorating the dedication of the temple, he was the single person who could be considered most instrumental in the building of the temple. David, by faith, had already built the temple.
Let us learn from David that God is still to be praised and submitted to.
James Loke
Director of HIM Education
