What to do when God says no! 2 Samuel 5-9

We often asked God for things and hope He says yes. We especially believe He will say yes when we want to do something special for Him; some act of service that demonstrates our love for Him and the worthiness of His praise. Who would say no to such a desire? But, that is exactly what happened in our passage today. David wanted to provide God with a worship act: He wanted to build a temple. Although David's spiritual advisor, Nathan, initially said yes, God said NO! God knew that David's heart was right but his reputation was not. God withheld him from a great act of worship because he was a man of war. God would allow David's son to build the temple but not David. So, what do you do when God puts a limit on your service for your past offenses? David kept right on serving where he could. And he kept serving in righteousness and justice (8:15). He even kept extending mercy to Saul's family (chapter 9). When most people can't serve the way they want they up and quit or leave. Most people, when told "no", hear "stop!" Not David. He only heard that God was going to do something great with his family as a result of his obedience - so he keeps obeying. We can stop serving when God tells us no or we can find a way to still practice righteousness and justice and keep on serving. That is the godly leadership thing to do.