David’s attitude in 1 Chron 17 is an amazing example for us. He wants to do everything possible to honour his God, and recognised the disparity between his house and the temporary dwelling of the ark of the covenant. Even though God denied David the opportunity to build the temple, David still threw himself into the preparation for the building, so that Solomon could build it as soon as possible.
We also read of David approaching God in overwhelming thankfulness, despite his desire to build God a temple being denied. David’s desire was that God’s “name will be established and magnified forever”, regardless of personal involvement. This should be our attitude too. Often events in life do not turn out the way we envisage, yet we have to trust that God is doing what is best for us, and helping us to glorify Him in the most effective way, even if that means us working behind the scenes to prepare for the more prominent efforts of others.
David mentions in his prayer that God had redeemed Israel, choosing them to be His people for ever. We’ve been offered the chance to be part of that people. Let us live by faith, just as David and Paul did, knowing that God is in control and has called us to be His heirs.