2 Samuel 7:8

Now therefore so shalt thou say unto my servant David, Thus saith the LORD of hosts, I took thee from the sheepcote, from following the sheep, to be ruler over my people, over Israel:

So shalt thou say unto my servant David. Yahweh's designation of David by the honourable title of his servant, was to give him a gracious assurance that his pious intentions were appreciated. It was a kind and delicate form of address, with a view not to dishearten him or wound him feelings, by a stern or disdainful rejection of his proposal; and though it is not stated here, it is affirmed elsewhere (1 Kings 8:18) that a positive expression of approval was given him on this occasion.