David wanted to build a temple to showcase the glory and the majesty of God, but God had other intentions. He wanted to establish His people and their king in order to reflect His glory to the nations. Why? Because God's people reflect His character to others.

David desired to build God a house for His ark of the covenant to dwell in on the top of Mount Zion. He had a great motivation and desire, but God wasn't ready for the Temple to be built yet. David had to wait.

David's wife Michal despised him because he devoted himself to the Lord. She was angry with God and David and took that anger out on David when he worshiped the Lord. Folks still do that to Chrsitians today.

David wanted to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, but he went about it the wrong way. God justifiably disciplined Uzzah for violating the holiness of God.

God prepared David for the tasks he would have to perform as the king of his people. He does the same with us.

King Saul's general Abner remained loyal to Saul's household until Saul's son questioned Abner's motives. Then, Abner joined forces with King David. We should learn to work through our differences with those who have been loyal to us in the past instead of accusing them of betraying us. Their past loyalty testifies to their heart.

David is publicly recognized as king over the tribe of Judah and he expects them to give him the same loyalty that they gave to Saul. Why? Because he is the Lord's anointed king.

David lamented the loss of Saul and Jonathan. it grieved his heart to lose them and to see the effects of thier loss on the people of Israel. We can learn from David here.

David grieved the death of Saul and Jonathan becasue he recognized their humna dignity and appointed roles of authority from the Lord. We can learn from him to treat those who are placed in authority over us with respect and affection.

God does all things in his time and for his purposes. He will be vctorios and we must trust him whille living in a world that is opposed to him and his will being done.