Whereas I have not dwelt in any house since the time that I brought up the children of Israel out of Egypt, even to this day, but have walked in a tent and in a tabernacle.
I have never lived in a permanent house from the time I brought the Israelites out of Egypt until now. Instead, I have traveled with them in a tent and a portable sanctuary.
God is reminding David that He has always been mobile and present with His people during their journey, not confined to a permanent building.
📚 Historical Context
This is part of God's response to King David's desire to build a temple for the Lord. David felt it was inappropriate that he lived in a cedar palace while God's ark resided in a tent. God is explaining through the prophet Nathan that He has been content to dwell in the portable tabernacle that traveled with Israel through the wilderness and into the Promised Land.
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