Rest Series

Series: Israel’s 2nd King- David [#20]

REST

2 Samuel 7:1-3

Introduction:

David had made Jerusalem the Capital of Israel. The next important thing he did was to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. The Ark represented the presence of God. Once he had accomplished this, he had the opportunity to do something that he had not done in a long time- Rest.

Contrary to what the World says, rest is not a bad thing. After the 6 days of creation, God rested on the 7th day. God was not tired or needed a break; but He wanted to show us how important a day of rest is. We all need rest. This is not a subject that I enjoy discussing because it is an area that I am not good at.

2 Samuel 7:1-3

God can bring…

1. Peace.

David was living in a house. You may be thinking, “Big deal, the King of Israel was living in a nice house”; but I want you to think about where David had been living. He lived at his father’s home, a room in a Palace of a King who was trying to kill him, in caves, outside, and in Cities of his enemy. This house that David lived in was built by material that was a gift from King Hiram, King of Tyre; and was built by skilled workers sent by King Hiram. This house built of expensive cedar wood costed David nothing. God had blessed him with a house that he could enjoy and not have to do a lot of work on.

David was happily married. Yes, he had trouble with Michal; but she was out of the picture. Things were good with his wife Abigail. She shared his passion for God. His wives, (except for Michal) were giving him children. God was blessing David’s family and brought David peace at home.

David’s Kingdom was uniting more each day and his enemies had retreated. God had given the Nation security and the people peace. Things were going great for the Nation of Israel.

God can bring…

2. Relief.

David had to be exhausted from the countless years of running from Saul, fighting in battles, dealing with the enemy, and leading the Tribe of Judah. He was constantly working, leading warriors, and coming up with plans. All of a sudden, things were calm. David had relief from all of the craziness; and was able to rest.

This type of rest didn’t just mean that he was getting many hours of sleep each day. Things were settling down, remaining still, and being quiet. David didn’t have to look over his shoulder all of the time. David was getting to watch the promises of God be fulfilled.

God can bring…

3. Thoughtfulness.

Many times, when a person goes from being busy all of the time to times of quietness and peace; they begin to have time to think about things. David began to look around at how nice his home was and felt guilty that the Ark of the Covenant was in a tent. He decided to build a Temple for God. He talked to the Prophet Nathan about it and Nathan told him to go for it.

Conclusion:

Next week, we will study about God’s response to David; but I want us to see this morning that God had given David peace and rest. What do you when God gives you times of rest?