The Bible records that David always pleased God in his worship and his life except for the incident with Bathsheba (2 Samuel 11). Therefore, God blessed David. God was with David, helping him defeat his enemies and allowing him to prosper in all things. God also promised David: “Your house and your kingdom shall endure before Me forever; Your throne shall be established forever” (2 Samuel 7:16).
From this chapter, we can see the factor which made David a man after God’s own heart.
Caring for God’s temple (Verse 1)
David built houses for himself and also prepared a place for the ark of God. In the Christian life and faith, we should not only care for our own homes but also care for the house of God. An elderly sister shared a testimony with me. At that time, her church lacked brothers or sisters who could play the piano. She prayed to God, asking for a child that could serve Him through piano playing. Thank God, He answered her prayers, she later gave birth to a daughter. When her daughter grew up, she would often help out in church by playing the piano and participating in the work of hymnal worship and praise. God also blessed her and her family.
Obey and observe the laws of God (Verse 2 - 24)
David transported the ark of God according to His instructions. Only the levities are permitted to carry the ark of God, because the Lord has chosen them to carry the ark of God (Deuteronomy 10:8). God is the source of our blessings, therefore everything we do must be pleasing to Him. Therefore, we ought to be diligent in observing God’s law, not deviating from His commandments, to treasure His word in our hearts so as not to sin against Him, in doing this, we are blessed (Psalm 119:1-4; 10-11).
In addition, in accordance with God’s command, David sent word for all the Levites who served God to sanctify themselves. This is also recorded in the Bible where God said to Moses, “Speak to all the congregation of the children of Israel, and say to them: ‘You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy.’” (Leviticus 19:2). Paul in the New Testament also tells us that our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, it is bought at a price and we need to glorify God in our body (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Therefore, all that we do must be holy.
Worship with a humble and thankful heart (Verse 25 - 29)
David, the elders of Israel, the captains over thousands and the people of Israel welcomed the ark of God with great joy. God blesses the Levites who carried the ark of God. The psalmist tells us: “Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name.” (Psalms 100:1-4). The fear of the Lord is the instruction of wisdom, And before honor is humility. (Proverbs 15:33).
Reflection questions:
Is the Lord the goal of my life?
Do all my actions and deeds please God?
In church, do I worship and serve God with joy and gladness?
