"No, but..."

Not a direct quote from God, but that was more or less the beginning of His response to King David who desired to build a temple for the presence of the Lord to dwell in (2 Sam 7). I always saw that particular interaction as somewhat of a chastisement from God upon David. His heart seemed to be in the right place and he wanted to do something grand for the Lord. But God did not want David to take on this feat. David was a "man of war". During his reign there was a lot of bloodshed and tension from Israel's adversaries.

In actuality, the answer God gave was a response of grace. Later, we find out that it took seven years to build the temple and that was after the plans had already been given for it as well as much of the supplies of precious metals, costly stones, and wood were accumulated for its construction. Can you imagine how much preparation and manpower it would have taken only one dynasty to oversee? Keep in mind that they didn't have the industrious railroad or highways filled with semis to deliver commodities in that day. God simply knew that there were not long enough periods of peace in the land while David was king to effectively accomplish the entirety of this this work.

It was also an answer full of love. God gave David a gift in allowing the project to be completed by his son Solomon, providing David with the design plans, and giving him access as king to the costly supplies mentioned earlier. David was allowed to play a huge role in the building process. Looking past the initial response and observing more deeply into the unfolding of events, we can see how God wisely distributes grace toward His children. That includes every one of them. You and I as well. Bask in the love that He lavishes upon you and know that it's OK when God denies or delays our requests for a greater good.