2 Samuel 7
The running has been over for several years. David rules from Jerusalem in a newly completed cedar palace. It was a much-needed period of rest after years of exile, hiding and warfare. I imagine David, in a moment of silence and reflection, coming to the realization that God had been the source of his triumphs, his success and this season of rest. His gratitude begets immediate action to do something for God. He talks with Nathan, the prophet, and shares his desire to move the ark of God from a tent into a more permanent structure. Later that night, God speaks to Nathan with a message for David. Although David’s plan was well-intentioned, it was not God’s plan and was not to be.
Over the years I have encountered many individuals who desire to hear from God to gain clarity on career choices, a life partner or understanding during a tough time. They often say, “I keep praying, but I can’t hear God speaking.” Other comments indicate that while they believe God does speak, they haven’t had a tangible encounter or remain unsure of what to do.
This particular story in 2 Samuel 7 depicts access and response from God that may seem elusive in our scheduled, clinical, pragmatic, transitory, postmodern age. Could it really be that simple? Does God still speak in clear, concise language?
It may be tempting to look at this specific instance and determine that since we don’t have “prophets” as part of our inner circle, we can’t have a similar experience. Instead, I would posit that we can have these types of occurrences if we connect and listen.
Summer is perhaps a great time to incorporate these holy habits more intentionally in our daily routines. Make time to stop and smell the roses; observe a sunrise or sunset; take a leisurely stroll or commit to have device-free time when first waking or falling asleep. These times allow us to become comfortable with silence while focusing on listening to God’s voice.
When did you last spent time with your “Nathan”? You know — that person who encourages, supports, challenges, holds you accountable and cultivates his or her own relationship with God. We all need these connections to assist in staying on course in our personal and professional lives. Our responsibilities, as well as our triumphs, require that we make time to connect and listen to God.
Like David, we have been invited to partner with God to serve our students, patients/clients, local community, county, state, nation and world.
Like David, we too may create plans to do things for God that are noble and honorable, yet not in His will. It is through our active practice of connecting and listening to God and each other that we can respond affirmatively to His leading.
Join me in reading and reflecting on this chapter, 2 Samuel 7. God is still speaking.
Are we listening?
—Dilys Brooks, MDiv, is campus chaplain for Loma Linda University