Wednesday, October 4, 2023

David also said to Solomon his son, “Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you until all the work for the service of the temple of the Lord is finished.

1 Chronicles 28:20

David had his faults, as we all do. We know his story. He grew up shepherding his father’s flock. He was anointed by Samuel to be king when he was probably the least likely in his family to lead. He went years before he was coronated, suffering many years at the hands of Saul, Israel’s first king. David would go on to do mighty exploits for God: setting up the military and winning many wars. From the very beginning, God used him to smite God’s enemies (David versus Goliath). As David settled into older age, he wanted to build a house for God. God declined his offer, telling David that there was too much blood on his hands. He chose David’s son, Solomon, to build his house. In 1 Chronicles 28, David gave Solomon the plans to build the temple. He gave him the plans that the Spirit gave him and provided him instructions for the divisions of priests and Levites—those who would serve in the temple. All of this: David gave to his son in writing. In the 20th verse, David charges Solomon to be strong and courageous. He encourages Solomon, letting him know that God will not fail or forsake him until all the work for the service of the temple of the Lord is finished.

How does this speak to us? It reminds us that just because God brings things to our minds or hearts does not necessarily mean that we are the ones to execute them. We are members of God’s body and are interdependent on one another. Each of us has a different role to fill. It is about God’s assignment and timing, not ours. Just remember: God may have just made you the visionary. He must be consulted about the execution.

PRAYER: Lord, give me the heart to follow you, go when you say go, and stop when you say stop. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.