The most hated word of all.

You hated it as a kid.

You threw temper-tantrums over it.

We all did.

And if we'd be honest about it, the truth is we don't much like it now.

It is still the hated word.

No.

See, you don't like it do you? Join the crowd. Take a number and get in line. Get used to it.

Because I got news for you. God often answers your prayers with a one-word answer. And this time it isn't "Slow" (or wait for it). This time it is that hated word. NO!

David had a burning desire in his heart. He wanted to build a Temple to the Lord. He looked around at his sumptuous palace and then one day noticed the Tabernacle of the Lord. (Tabernacle is just a really good bible word for tent). And David felt something prick his heart. Is it right that I live in a Palace, but God is living in a tent?

He wanted to build God a Temple that was worthy of His name. A Temple that would glorify God. A Temple that would draw the nations to the one True God!

And David had the means to make it happen. He was the most powerful man in the Middle East (his corner of the world). He had the resources at hand to get the job done. He had at his disposal the labor-force to make it happen, NOW!

But God said No.

It says something about David that He didn't ignore God and just go ahead and do it anyway. He could have. We often do when God clearly tells us no.

• No, that relationship isn't good for you.
• No, that's not the job for you.
• No, you do not need that in your body.
• No, I called you to live a holy life.
• No, that is not yours, I have told you, the tithe is Holy and is mine.

It says something about us that when God has clearly said no that we go ahead anyway and do our own thing.

So what did David do when God said no? He obeyed. And then he got to work setting up the next guy to be a success by collecting (and giving) the supplies necessary for the Temple to eventually be built. Even though he would never step foot inside it. Even though he would never lay an eye upon it. Even though he would never get the credit for it.

It says something about David, doesn't it. Is God telling you, no? It says something about how you respond when He does. And make no mistake about it, He will often tell you no. If you doubt that, just for a moment consider how many times you said no as a parent, or how many times you heard it as a child.

There is something about the love of a parent that often has to speak "no" into the life of the one you love.

Trust God when he says no to your prayer.