Who Am I, O Lord God?

If David had possessed pride of opinion, he might have become highly incensed at having his ideas crossed. Instead he accepted the divine rebuke, even though it was contrary to both his purpose and the prophet’s judgment.” “Though the cherished purpose of his heart had been denied, David received the message with gratitude. . . . ‘And this was yet a small thing in Thy sight, O Lord God; but Thou hast spoken also of Thy servant’s house for a great while to come.’ . . . “David knew that it would be an honor to his name and would bring glory to his government to perform the work that he had purposed in his heart to do, but he was ready to submit his will to the will of God. The grateful resignation thus manifested is rarely seen, even among Christians. How often do those who have passed the strength of manhood cling to the hope of accomplishing some great work upon which their hearts are set. . . . [Instead,] it is theirs to prepare the way for another to accomplish it. But instead of gratefully submitting to the divine direction, many fall back as if slighted and rejected, feeling that if they cannot do the one thing which they desire to do, they will do nothing. Many cling with desperate energy to responsibilities which they are incapable of bearing, and vainly endeavor to accomplish a work for which they are insufficient, while that which they might do, lies neglected. And because of this lack of co-operation on their part the greater work is hindered or frustrated.” “As David sat in meditation he probably reviewed the years that had gone, thinking first of himself as a humble shepherd lad wandering over the hills and becoming acquainted with the ways of God; then how he had been chosen for the kingdom, . . . little knowing one day what new trial and danger the next would bring forth. Now at length he enjoyed peace, and with it came the promise from God as to the future of his kingdom.” Humility is often lacking in those blessed with power.