1 Chronicles 17

“Then King David went in and sat before the LORD and said, ‘Who am I, O LORD God, and what is my house, that you have brought me thus far?’” (1 Chronicles 17:16, ESV)

David was overwhelmed with the goodness of God. After all, who was he that the LORD should choose him? God took David from following the sheep and made him prince over His people Israel. The LORD was with David wherever he went. He cut off all David’s enemies and made his name great among the nations.

However, David felt that it wasn’t right for him to live in a house of cedar while the LORD was still living in a tent. He wanted to build a house for the LORD, but God didn’t want David to do it. There was too much blood on David’s hands from his many wars. Nevertheless, God would build David a house—a dynasty of kings that would culminate with the Messiah reigning forever on his throne.

What could David say to all these things? “There is none like you, O LORD, and there is no God besides you, according to all that we have heard with our ears.” (v. 20) As I said, David was overwhelmed with God’s goodness.

As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, along with preparing for the meal, let us prepare our hearts. Consider where you were when the LORD found you. What has He done for you? How has He changed you? What prayers has He answered? What trials has He brought you through? How has He given you the desires of your heart? I am convinced that the more we meditate on these things, the more grateful and joyful we will be. May we all be overwhelmed with His goodness!