By Lisa Wilmore
Scripture: …As for me, I had in mine heart to build an house of rest for the ark of the covenant of the Lord, and for the footstool of our God, and had made ready for the building: but God said unto me, Thou shalt not build an house for my name, because thou hast been a man of war, and hast shed blood (I Chronicles 28: 2b-3).
Have you ever encountered instances where it was purposed in your heart to offer a service or assistance to someone, and they rejected your proposal? Have you ever desired to make a situation better, you think, and your suggestion was not accepted? Have you had the desire in your heart to make provisions for an individual, and it was rejected? Well, sometimes the heart says yes, but God says no. Oftentimes we have the greatest intentions purposed in our hearts, but it is neither God’s plan for our lives, nor is it His timing. He does not grant permission to every heart’s desire. Although our hearts are compelled to do mighty works (we think) for God, He reserves the right to reject our desires. The rejection does not mean that God is not pleased at your heart’s desire; however, it simply means that your desire does not fit into His plan.
It was revealed in the above-mentioned text that David, King of Israel, desired to build a house of rest for the ark of the covenant of the Lord. However, God said, thou shalt “NOT” build a house for my name. Because David was a man of war and shed blood, his “heart’s request was denied”. David’s desire was an admirable display of his love and respect for God and His Covenant; nevertheless, it was not God’s will or timing to allow his request. For that reason, David understood, humbled himself, and prayed to God in acceptance of His will (2 Sam. 7: 18-28).
God’s will for David was far greater than building a house for the Ark of the Covenant. God promised David that his house would continue forever (2 Sam. 7:16). Although his earthly dynasty ended, the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promise was Jesus Christ, who reigns for eternity, and He is a direct descendent of David. In addition, God commissioned Solomon, David’s son to build the temple.
When our heart’s request is denied, we must humble ourselves and pray, accept God’s will, and accept God’s timing.
