Let’s move the ark of our God back here, for we did not seek his will throughout Saul’s reign.”

David did just as God commanded him, and they struck down the Philistine army from Gibeon to Gezer.

So David became famous in all the lands; the Lord caused all the nations to fear him.

The priests and Levites consecrated themselves so they could bring up the ark of the Lord God of Israel.

When David finished offering burnt sacrifices and peace offerings, he pronounced a blessing over the people in the Lord’s name.

Then let the trees of the forest shout with joy before the Lord, for he comes to judge the earth!

Then all the people returned to their homes, and David went to pronounce a blessing on his family.

He will build me a house, and I will make his dynasty permanent.

He defeated the Moabites; the Moabites became David’s subjects and brought tribute.

David defeated King Hadadezer of Zobah as far as Hamath, when he went to extend his authority to the Euphrates River.

David took the golden shields which Hadadezer’s servants had carried and brought them to Jerusalem.

Abishai son of Zeruiah killed 18,000 Edomites in the Valley of Salt.

When David heard the news, he sent Joab and the entire army to meet them.

When he taunted Israel, Jonathan son of Shimea, David’s brother, killed him.

Now Joab did not number Levi and Benjamin, for the king’s edict disgusted him.

God was also offended by it, so he attacked Israel.

While Ornan was threshing wheat, he turned and saw the messenger, and he and his four sons hid themselves.

When David was old and approaching the end of his life, he made his son Solomon king over Israel.

So the Levites no longer need to carry the tabernacle or any of the items used in its service.”

I will establish his kingdom permanently, if he remains committed to obeying my commands and regulations, as you are doing this day.’