PRACTICAL POINTS FOR DISCUSSION:
1. No matter how reasonable our ideas appear to ourselves and to others, we cannot improve upon God’s methods and timing (II Samuel 7:4-7).
2. If we are honest and sincere, we must humbly acknowledge that any success we experience is by the grace of God (II Samuel 7:8-11).
3. We need to maintain an eternal perspective, because God’s plan extends far beyond our lifetimes and our limited vision (II Samuel 7:12-13).
4. Those who are chosen of God and walk in sin can expect discipline because they are children of a loving Father (II Samuel 7:14; Hebrews 12:7).
5. God’s judgment in mercy is designed to bring His child back into fellowship with Him (II Samuel 7:15-16).