Have you ever had a plan you were excited about, something good, even God-honoring, only to have God say, “No”? It’s one of the hardest things in the Christian life. But it’s also one of the most transformative.

In 2 Samuel 7, David had a great idea. He wanted to build a temple for God, a permanent home for the Ark of the Covenant. David was living in a beautiful cedar palace while the Ark sat under a tent. His heart was in the right place. Even the prophet Nathan said, “Go and do all that is on your heart, for the Lord is with you.” (v. 3) But that night, God spoke to Nathan and told him to deliver a different message: David would not be the one to build the house. God had other plans. And in that “no,” God unfolded a much greater “yes.”

1. When You Can’t Build for God, Trust That He’s Building in You

David wanted to build a house for God, but God said, “David, I’m going to build a house for you.” Not a structure, but a dynasty. One that would endure forever.

“The LORD Himself will make a house for you…and your throne will be established forever.”
– 2 Samuel 7:11,16

This was more than a personal promise. It was a prophetic one. It pointed to Jesus, the Son of David, the King of Kings whose kingdom will never end. Sometimes God says “no” to the good so He can accomplish the greater. When your dream is denied, remember: God may be preparing something eternal through you.

2. Don’t Let a Closed Door Shut Down Your Worship

How did David respond to the disappointment? He didn’t pout, panic, or push his way through. Scripture says:

“Then King David went in, sat in the LORD’s presence, and said, ‘Who am I, Lord God, and what is my house that You have brought me this far?’” – 2 Samuel 7:18

David chose to worship. He remembered where God had brought him from, a shepherd boy in a pasture, and thanked God for what He had already done. That’s a great reminder for us. Don’t let one “no” cause you to forget all the “yeses” God has already given you.

3. God’s “No” to Your Plan Might Be His “Yes” to a Greater Purpose

David would not build the temple, but he didn’t sit on the sidelines. He gave generously. He gathered materials. He set Solomon up for success. Why? Because David understood that God’s mission was bigger than his moment.

“I have set my affection on the house of my God, and I have given to the house of my God, over and above…” – 1 Chronicles 29:3

When God says “no” to our plan, it doesn’t mean we’re disqualified. It just means He’s doing something different, and often, better, than we imagined.

4. God Is Still Building a House for You

The story of David points us to Jesus. He’s not only our Savior—He’s our King. And He’s building a house for all who believe in Him.

“In My Father’s house are many rooms…I go to prepare a place for you.”-John 14:2

If you’ve ever been discouraged by doors that closed, dreams that didn’t come true, or plans that didn’t work out, be encouraged. God hasn’t forgotten you. He’s preparing a place, a purpose, and a future for you that far outweighs anything you can imagine.

Ready to Trust God’s Plan?

Life doesn’t always go according to our blueprint. But God is faithful, even in the no. If you’re in a season of waiting, wondering, or redirection, I want to encourage you: God is working behind the scenes. His “no” is never the end of the story, it’s often the beginning of something even greater.

If you’re looking for a place to discover God’s purpose and grow in your faith, we’d love to walk with you. Plan your visit to Liberty Live Church or fill out a connect card. We’d be honored to meet you and help you take your next step.

Let’s say “yes” to His plans together.