Old Testament
2 Samuel 7:3
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Nathan told the king, "Go ahead and do whatever is on your heart, because the LORD is with you."
Compare translations
And Nathan said to the king, Go, do all that is in thine heart; for the LORD is with thee.
What 2 Samuel 7:3 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Nathan, a prophet, encourages King David to pursue his desires, affirming that God is with him. David has a vision to build a temple for God, reflecting his deep commitment and love. Nathan's response shows support and confidence in David's intentions. It highlights the importance of seeking God's presence in our plans. When we feel inspired to do something good, it’s vital to recognize that God’s support can empower us. This passage reminds us that our heartfelt desires can align with divine purpose. It encourages us to act on our dreams, knowing that we are not alone. God’s presence can guide us as we take steps toward fulfilling our aspirations, especially when they are rooted in love and service. This interaction between Nathan and David illustrates the value of encouragement and the assurance that God is with us in our endeavors, reinforcing the idea that our ambitions can be part of a greater plan. It’s a call to trust in God’s guidance as we pursue what we believe is right.
How to apply 2 Samuel 7:3 to your life
When you feel inspired to take action, remember that you are not alone. Seek God’s guidance in your plans and trust that your desires can align with a greater purpose. Take steps toward your dreams, knowing that God supports you in your journey. Let your heart lead you in service and love, and act with confidence in your choices. Embrace the encouragement from those around you as you pursue your goals with faith and determination.
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 7:3
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 2 Samuel 7:3
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 Nathan's encouragement to David mean?
Nathan's encouragement to David signifies a moment of affirmation and support. It shows that Nathan believes in David's intentions to build a temple for God. This interaction highlights the importance of having trusted advisors who can recognize and affirm our aspirations, especially when they align with a desire to serve God. It also reflects the idea that when we pursue good and noble goals, we can feel confident that God is with us.
How can I apply this verse to my life?
You can apply this verse by recognizing that your heartfelt desires, especially those aimed at serving others or honoring God, are valid and worthy of pursuit. When you feel inspired to take action, seek God's guidance through prayer and reflection. Trust that your ambitions can align with a greater purpose and take steps toward your goals with confidence, knowing that you are not alone in your journey.
Why is encouragement important in pursuing dreams?
Encouragement is crucial because it provides the motivation and confidence needed to pursue our dreams. When we receive support from others, like Nathan's affirmation to David, it reinforces our belief in our goals and helps us overcome doubts and fears. Encouragement can also remind us that we are not alone in our journey, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose as we strive to fulfill our aspirations.
What role does prayer play in pursuing my goals?
Prayer plays a vital role in aligning your goals with God's will. It allows you to seek guidance, clarity, and strength as you navigate your aspirations. Through prayer, you can express your desires, ask for wisdom, and invite God's presence into your plans. This spiritual practice can help you discern whether your ambitions are in line with a greater purpose and provide peace as you take steps forward.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.