A Kingdom that Lasts

As David looks around at his luxurious new home, he is struck by the sudden urge to build a better home for God. So he holds counsel with Nathan the Prophet and Nathan encourages him and prays for him. That night, Nathan receives a promise from God for David, a promise that God will build up the household of David. David exemplified what it meant for a leader to follow God. He worshiped God both in battle and in praise and he taught the nation to do the same.

In our previous story we heard how David moved the Ark to Israel, into the city of David, where it belonged. Though it wasn’t an easy task, and because David set about it the wrong way at first a priest named Uzzah died, the Ark eventually made its way to Israel, where David danced without shame before the Lord. His wife Michal let him know of her disapproval, but David made it clear he was dancing for none but his God. Today we’ll meet a new prophet – a man named Nathan who will both encourage and challenge David in the years to come. God will speak through Nathan to guide and correct David, who will lead God’s people with a righteous heart that seeks the Lord. God will bless Israel with victories and prosperity under this king who has a heart like God’s.