In these chapters David now becomes king over all Israel at the age of 30. He reigned for 40 years, seven years in Hebron, and 33 over all Israel. His first act was to conquer the Jebusite city of Jerusalem to be the new capital. Hiram king of Tyre sent David cedar logs, carpenters, and stonemasons to help build him a palace. After that, David felt established as king. He took more wives and concubines, and they bore him even more sons. The Philistines attacked, but the Lord guided David, and the Israelites won. David then wanted to bring the Ark of God to Jerusalem. The first attempt was not brought as the Lord directed, and when the cart stumbled and the ark rocked, Uzzah touched the ark and died instantly for his irreverent act, for no one was to touch the ark because it was holy for the Lord's presence dwelt there. David was angry and then fearful, so the Ark stayed at Obed-Edom's place. Yet the Lord blessed Obed-Edom so much, that David went after it again, but this time men carried it on poles the way the Lord directed it. There was great rejoicing when they entered Jerusalem. Everyone seemed jubilant except for Saul's daughter, Michal. She once loved David her first husband, but now she despised him. She ended up being childless until the day of her death. David had wanted to build a temple for the Lord, but the Lord said no. He promised David that his offspring would be blessed with an eternal kingdom, and David went before the Lord and praised and thanked the Lord for His kindness to David, his family, and the nation of Israel. The Lord's eternal kingdom is established through Jesus Christ, the son of David, and the Son of God, and it is for all who believe in Him.
