You may have noticed by now that I often speak of the power behind God’s biblical promises to His people. That’s because since I have begun studying, believing, and praying the promises of God, my life—and my prayer life—have never been the same. One of the passages in the Bible that has helped me to discover the power of God’s promises is in the seventh chapter of Second Samuel. It involves King David, who is on the throne in Israel at the time, and who is seeking God about his future, and the future of his family.

We find out from David that God has revealed His will and promise for David and his household, as he tells the Lord, "You, O Lord of hosts, God of Israel, have revealed this to Your servant: I will build you a house." (2 Samuel 7:27 AMP) This "house" is actually "a dynasty of kings" (NLT), which will eventually bring forth the King of Kings Himself. Here, we discover that when we seek the Lord in a situation, He will often reveal to us a word of promise that will help us to know and understand His will for our situation. We have the ability and the responsibility to receive God’s direction, because of His Holy Spirit who dwells in us. The apostle Paul prayed, "We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of His will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives." (Colossians 1:9 NIV) Always remember that God’s will for you is knowable and doable, as you walk in close fellowship with Him and rely on His Spirit for wisdom and guidance.

Next, David says, "So Your servant has found courage to pray this prayer to You." (2 Samuel 7:27 AMP) Here, the Scripture reveals that we can base our prayers for our situation on the word of promise that God gives us, and we can do it with confidence and boldness, because it came from the Lord Himself and carries His power and authority. The Bible says: "You who [are His servants and by your prayers] put the Lord in remembrance [of His promises], keep not silence, and give Him no rest..." (Isaiah 62:6-7 AMP) God invites us, and expects us, to base our prayers on His Word, His truth, and His promises—which are His will. And He promises that when we pray according to His will, we will always receive what we pray for. (1 John 5:14-15) Think of it. Almighty God tells us to remind Him of His own promises, and to keep reminding Him!

We find David telling the Lord, "Now, O Lord God, confirm forever the word You have given as to Your servant and his house; and do as You have said." (2 Samuel 7:25 AMP) In other words, we should ask and expect the Lord to confirm His Word and promise to us, by doing what He said He would do. Scripture says of Christ’s disciples: "They went forth, and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following." (Mark 16:20 KJV) When we pray and stand in faith upon the promises that God speaks to our hearts, He will eventually give us confirmation—often through sudden and explosive acts on our behalf. And just as the Lord fulfilled His promises to David, He will fulfill His to us.

In Second Samuel 7:26 (NIV), David reveals his—and the Lord’s—desire and motivation in all this: "So that Your name will be great forever." Whatever situation you find yourself in right now, let me assure you that the Lord has a good outcome and a promise of blessing in store for you. Lay hold of these powerful scriptural principles today—for your good and His glory!

Prayer: Lord, in every situation I face, lead me to seek Your will and Your word to me. Grant me revelation from heaven that will fill me with hope and strength. Speak Your promises to my heart, and help me to pray them in faith. Thank You that as I follow Your lead, You will confirm Your Word with signs following!