2 Samuel 7:7 Meaning and Explanation
“In all the places wherein I have walked with all the children of Israel spake I a word with any of the tribes of Israel, whom I commanded to feed my people Israel, saying, Why build ye not me an house of cedar?”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →God points out that in all the years of leading Israel He never once asked any leader to build Him a house of cedar.
What Does 2 Samuel 7:7 Mean?
Continuing His reply, the LORD observes that in all His journeying with Israel He never reproached any tribe or leader for failing to build Him a house of cedar. The very thing David assumed God must want, God says He never required. The leaders are pictured as shepherds commanded to feed God's people.
The Lord measures His servants by faithfulness in caring for His people, not by the grandeur of what they build for Him. David is reminded that God's priorities are not always our projects. The image of shepherds feeding the flock looks ahead to the Good Shepherd, who would tend God's people not with cedar but with His own life.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2 Samuel 7:7
What does 2 Samuel 7:7 mean?
God points out that in all the years of leading Israel He never once asked any leader to build Him a house of cedar.