It began in David’s heart as he noticed that he was living in a fine cedar house, but the presence of the LORD (as symbolized by the ark) was residing in a tent. David wanted to build a more permanent structure for the ark. He would learn that it would not be him, but one of his sons who would build a temple. Another of David’s descendants (Jesus) would build a permanent house for God’s presence on earth. David’s desire reflected the desire of the ages.
LORD, build a permanent house for yourself in our hearts.
1 Chronicles 17