Old Testament
1 Chronicles 17:3
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But that same night, the word of God came to Nathan:
Compare translations
And it came to pass the same night, that the word of God came to Nathan, saying,
What 1 Chronicles 17:3 means
Plain-English insight for readers
That night, God spoke to Nathan, a prophet, revealing His plans. This moment highlights the importance of divine communication in guiding leaders. Nathan, who was close to King David, received a message that would shape the future of Israel. It shows how God uses individuals to convey His will. Nathan's role was crucial, as he would relay God's intentions to David. This interaction emphasizes the significance of listening to God's voice in our lives. It reminds us that God is actively involved in our decisions and plans, guiding us toward His purpose. Just as Nathan was attentive to God's message, we too should seek to understand what God is saying to us today. This passage encourages us to be open to divine guidance and to trust in God's timing and direction for our lives. It illustrates the relationship between God and His people, showing that He desires to communicate with us personally and intimately, shaping our paths and destinies through His word and wisdom. We are invited to engage in this dialogue with God.
How to apply 1 Chronicles 17:3 to your life
Take time to listen for God's guidance in your life. Reflect on your decisions and seek clarity through prayer and meditation. Be open to the messages you receive, whether through scripture, prayer, or the counsel of others. Trust that God is actively involved in your journey and desires to lead you. Stay attentive to His voice and direction as you navigate life's challenges and choices. This practice can deepen your relationship with God.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Chronicles Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from David's story: God's Promise to David (1 Chronicles 17:1–27)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
David

Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about 1 Chronicles 17:3
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying 1 Chronicles 17:3
Related Bible verses
Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of 1 Chronicles
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Ezra
- Written
- Around 430 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Post-exilic Jews
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Chronicles 17:3 mean?
1 Chronicles 17:3 describes a moment when God communicates with Nathan the prophet during the night. This verse highlights the importance of divine guidance in making significant decisions, particularly for leaders like King David.
What is the significance of Nathan in 1 Chronicles 17:3?
Nathan is significant in 1 Chronicles 17:3 as he serves as a messenger for God, receiving important revelations that would influence the future of Israel. His role emphasizes the importance of prophets in conveying God's will to leaders.
How does 1 Chronicles 17:3 relate to listening to God?
1 Chronicles 17:3 illustrates the necessity of being attentive to God's voice, as Nathan receives a crucial message that shapes Israel's future. It encourages readers to seek and listen for God's guidance in their own lives.
What can we learn from 1 Chronicles 17:3?
From 1 Chronicles 17:3, we learn the importance of being open to divine communication and the role of prayer in seeking guidance. It reminds us that God is actively involved in our lives and desires to direct our paths.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.