A Prayer of Praise - 2 Samuel 7:18-29

By David Woods

Read "Introduction"

Read 2 Samuel 7:18-21

The first section of our scripture text is titled "Praise for the knowledge of God." In verse twenty David said, "For thou, LORD God, knowest thy servant."

Discussion: What attitude(s) do we usually have when we gain a fresh realization of how intimately God knows all about us?

Discussion: How would you describe David's attitude in these verses?

Discussion: Why do you think David seems surprised that God would establish a Davidic dynasty?

David was a great man. He was a great king.

Discussion: Why did David ask, "Who am I that you would do so much for me?"

Discussion: Should David have taken some credit for his success in life? Why or why not?

Discussion: How can a person who experiences great success remain humble as David did?

Read 2 Samuel 7:22-24

The second section of our scripture text is titled, "Praise for the greatness of God."

Discussion: Do you think God likes hearing His people say, "There is no God like you?" Why?

Discussion: Is the Christian a more special person than the sinner?

Discussion: In what way does the Christian enjoy a more exalted position than the unbeliever?

Read 2 Samuel 7:25-29

In this final section of our scripture text, David gives "praise for the character of God." However, by what David says I wonder if some would question the character of God.

What I mean is this: if I said that I wanted to make a name for myself, you probably would think my head was puffed up a little too big. You would think me proud. However, God talks about His desire to bring glory to Himself and we say that it is only right.

Discussion: Why is it right for God to seek glory for Himself?

Discussion: Why is there great power in prayers in which the pray-er asks God to glorify Himself?

Discussion: How can we know that God's promise is true - when we have not received the fulfillment of the promise?

White Board: Based on David's prayer, what are some elements of praise in prayer?
(Humility, a recognition of how great God is, a request for God to gain honor by doing _____, affirming God's trustworthiness.)

White Board: What are some things we should praise God for today?

Prayer: (Teacher: Assign praise topics to each student and ask each to pray a sentence prayer of praise to God.)

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