Following the Trail of God's Promises: The 40-Day ChallengeSample

28. God Promises Favor to David

At university and at work, I have had the opportunity to learn what planning is and how to plan. Planning is extremely healthy and important both in business and in life because it helps us set clear goals and concrete steps that we must complete in order to reach an ultimate goal. But also, both privately and in business, I can testify that plans are only a framework, and deviations often occur. Like us, David planned. David’s plan was to build a temple to God as an expression of gratitude. He shares his plan with the prophet Nathan, who exhorts and encourages him: “Go, do all that is in your heart, for the Lord is with you.” That same night, God “speaks” to the prophet Nathan and changes both his prophetic plan and David’s royal plan, showing them that He is sovereign. Instead of building a temple, God reveals his “perfect” plan to David. God will “build/raise up” from David’s line a descendant with whom He will have a special relationship. “I shall be to him a father, and he shall be to me a son.” A Son who will redeem my sins and yours. The Son who forever changed history and reconciled man and God.

So, you should plan because it’s healthy and important, but include God in your plans. Don’t forget that He always has a “bigger” picture than you do. God’s plans are always plans of salvation. David was part of that plan. I believe that we are also part of that plan.