2
Nathan told David, "Whatever is on your heart, go and do it; God is with you."
3
But that night, the word of God came to Nathan, saying,
4
"Go and tell my servant David, This is God's word on the matter: You will not build me a 'house' to live in.
5
Why, I haven't lived in a 'house' from the time I brought up the children of Israel from Egypt till now; I've gone from one tent and makeshift shelter to another.
6
In all my travels with all Israel, did I ever say to any of the leaders I commanded to shepherd Israel, 'Why haven't you built me a house of cedar?'
Published by permission. Originally published by NavPress in English as THE MESSAGE: The Bible in Contemporary Language copyright 2002 by Eugene Peterson. All rights reserved.