After Saul’s death, representatives of all Israel came to David and anointed him as king. They had remembered his faithful service and God’s promise regarding David, which was not just to make him king, but a shepherd of God’s people (2).

David then captured Jerusalem, an ancient city in the territory of Judah that was still inhabited by Canaanites. Joab was raised as commander of Israel’s army because of his bravery in battle (6). Jerusalem became the royal residence, and David restored and developed the city (7-8). God used David to prepare the place for his temple where he would dwell with his people.

God’s desire was always to raise up a shepherd to bless his people. He ultimately fulfilled this hope when he sent Jesus, our shepherd king, who conquered our hearts and made them the temple of God. If we serve faithfully and don’t lose courage, the Lord will use us to build his house in our time as well.