Day 103: 2 Samuel 7, 1 Chronicles 17, Psalms 1-2, 33, 127, 132

God makes a promise to David that his kingdom would last forever:

Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me; your throne will be established forever.’”  (2 Samuel 7:16)

The last part of 2 Samuel 7 is David's prayer in response to God's promise. As I read his prayer I noted once again the combination confidence and humility. He is humbled by God's promise to him but it is that very promise that gives him the confidence to pray. I think this should be our example as well. We approach God humbly, to be sure, but yet confidently because He of His promises.

“LORD Almighty, God of Israel, you have revealed this to your servant, saying, ‘I will build a house for you.’ So your servant has found courage to pray this prayer to you. Sovereign LORD, you are God! Your covenant is trustworthy, and you have promised these good things to your servant. (2 Samuel 7:27-28)

Today's selection of Psalms are some of my favorites. I thought I'd just quote some of my favorite parts:

Blessed is the one
   who does not walk in step with the wicked
or stand in the way that sinners take
   or sit in the company of mockers,
but whose delight is in the law of the LORD,
   and who meditates on his law day and night.
That person is like a tree planted by streams of water,
   which yields its fruit in season
and whose leaf does not wither—
   whatever they do prospers. (Psalm 1:1-3)

Ever wonder about God's interest in politics?

Why do the nations conspire
   and the peoples plot in vain?
The kings of the earth rise up
   and the rulers band together
   against the LORD and against his anointed, saying,
“Let us break their chains
   and throw off their shackles.”
The One enthroned in heaven laughs;
   the Lord scoffs at them. (Psalm 2:1-3)

Of course I like this one:

Sing joyfully to the LORD, you righteous;
   it is fitting for the upright to praise him.
Praise the LORD with the harp;
   make music to him on the ten-stringed lyre.
Sing to him a new song;
   play skillfully, and shout for joy. (Psalm 33:1-3)

This is one I first learned from a plaque I received as a gift when I was in HS and I've liked it ever since:

Unless the LORD builds the house,
   the builders labor in vain.
Unless the LORD watches over the city,
   the guards stand watch in vain. (Psalm 127:1)