Old Testament
2 Samuel 7:15
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But my mercy will never be taken from him the way I took it from Saul, whom I removed to make room for you.
Compare translations
But my mercy shall not depart away from him, as I took it from Saul, whom I put away before thee.
What 2 Samuel 7:15 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God reassures David that His kindness and support will always be with him. Unlike Saul, who lost God's favor due to his disobedience, David will experience a lasting relationship with God. This promise highlights the importance of faithfulness and obedience in our lives. God’s mercy is a powerful force that can transform our circumstances. It reminds us that even when we stumble, there is hope for redemption. David’s story shows us that God values our hearts and intentions. His mercy is not just a one-time gift; it’s a continuous flow of love and support that we can rely on. This assurance encourages us to trust in God’s unwavering commitment to us, even when we face challenges or failures. We can find comfort in knowing that God’s mercy is always available, guiding us back to Him whenever we stray. This relationship is built on trust, and it invites us to respond with gratitude and faithfulness in our own lives, knowing that we are never alone in our journey.
How to apply 2 Samuel 7:15 to your life
Reflect on how God's mercy has been present in your life. Consider areas where you may need to show more faithfulness. Embrace the idea that even in your struggles, God's love is constant and available to guide you back to Him. Trust in His unwavering support as you navigate life's challenges. Remember, you are never alone in your journey with God!
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Samuel 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 (2 Samuel 7:1–29)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
David

Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, 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.
Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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 2 Samuel 7:15
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 2 Samuel 7:15
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of 2 Samuel
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel, Nathan, and Gad
- Written
- Around 930 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites of the early monarchy
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Samuel 7:15 mean for believers today?
2 Samuel 7:15 emphasizes God's unwavering mercy and support for those who are faithful to Him. For believers today, this verse reassures us that God's love and kindness are not conditional on our perfection. Instead, it highlights the importance of maintaining a faithful relationship with God, reminding us that even when we falter, His mercy is always available to guide us back to Him.
How does God's mercy differ between David and Saul?
In this verse, God's mercy is contrasted between David and Saul. Saul lost God's favor due to his disobedience and unfaithfulness, leading to his removal as king. In contrast, God promises David that His mercy will remain with him, indicating a lasting relationship based on David's heart for God. This difference underscores the significance of obedience and faithfulness in our walk with God.
What can we learn about obedience from 2 Samuel 7:15?
2 Samuel 7:15 teaches us that obedience to God is crucial for experiencing His mercy and favor. David's heart was aligned with God's will, which secured his relationship with the Lord. This verse encourages us to reflect on our own obedience and how it affects our relationship with God, reminding us that faithfulness is key to receiving His ongoing support and guidance.
How can I apply the message of this verse in my life?
To apply the message of 2 Samuel 7:15 in your life, reflect on areas where you can be more faithful to God. Acknowledge His mercy in your past and present struggles, and trust that He is always ready to guide you back when you stray. Embrace the idea that God's love is constant, and respond with gratitude and commitment to deepen your relationship with Him.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.