“Then went king David in, and sat before the LORD, and he said, Who am I, O Lord GOD? and what is my house, that thou hast brought me hitherto?”
This verse is a part of a larger passage known as the Davidic Covenant, in which God makes a promise to David regarding the establishment and perpetuity of his dynasty.
Context:In the preceding verses, David expresses his desire to build a permanent house, or temple, for the Lord. However, God sends the prophet Nathan to relay a message to David. God reveals that it is not David who will build the temple, but rather God will build David a “house” in the form of an everlasting dynasty.
David’s Humility:In verse 18, we see David’s response to God’s promise. Instead of boasting about his accomplishments or considering himself worthy of such a promise, David demonstrates humility. He acknowledges his own insignificance before the Lord, using the phrase, “Who am I, O Lord GOD?” David recognizes that God’s favour and blessings upon him and his lineage are far greater than he could ever deserve.
Recognizing God’s Faithfulness:David also expresses wonder at how God has brought him to this point in his life. He questions, “What is my house, that thou hast brought me hitherto?” David marvels at the fact that God has taken him from being a shepherd boy to the king of Israel. He acknowledges that his accomplishments and blessings are not a result of his own abilities or merits but are solely due to God’s faithfulness and grace.
Gratitude and Reverence:By sitting before the Lord, David shows his posture of reverence and gratitude. David’s response indicates his deep respect for God and his acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty. He understands that everything he has received is a gift from God and not something he has achieved on his own.
Application: As we reflect on this verse today, we can learn from David’s humility and gratitude. Like David, we should recognize that any success or blessings we receive in life are ultimately from God. We should approach God with humility, acknowledging His sovereignty and our unworthiness. Gratitude and reverence should characterize our relationship with God as we recognize His faithfulness in guiding and providing for us.
In conclusion, 2 Samuel 7:18 demonstrates David’s humility, gratitude, and reverence before God in response to the promise of an everlasting dynasty. It encourages us to approach God with a similar heart and to acknowledge His faithfulness in our lives.
