1 Chronicles 22:1-19
22:1-4 David began the process of the building of the Temple before his son Solomon became king. Solomon would continue and finish the project but David wanted to ensure that it had indeed been initiated. He appointed foreigners in the land to construct the building (people who were not of the tribes of Israel, but were God's people all the same).
22:5 David loved God so wholeheartedly that he wanted the temple to reflect the goodness of God, as best (if still inadequately) as it could. David made "abundant preparations"; David wanted to be the one to build this temple, but God postponed the project. David found a way to be as involved as he could, devoting all of his energy to this temple which he knew would represent this great and new faith.
We can learn from David's energy, the fervency with which he loved God. Despite his imperfections, his main purpose in life was following God's instructions and exuding his love for God. Because of those priorities, everything that went wrong in David's life was quickly and efficiently made right.
22:6-8 David revealed to his son that the honor of building the temple would be Solomon's. David's mission and purpose was to establish this kingdom through battle and defense. It was because of David's work ethic in faith with God that there was even a kingdom in which to build a temple.
22:9-11 In a heart to heart with his son, David's tells Solomon that God prophesied of his life. Solomon did indeed live a life of luxury, a life very different from his father's. David encourages Solomon to accept his purpose and relationship with God for prosperity would result.
22:12-13 There are four important things David says to Solomon in these two verses:
- May the Lord give you wisdom and understanding (and give you charge): God's wisdom helps us to navigate during our lives.
- Take care to fulfill the statutes and judgments with which the Lord charged Moses: Follow God's instruction.
- Be strong and of good courage: Persevere in faith
- Do not fear nor be dismayed: Trust God to overcome and eliminate that which you are afraid of
22:14-16 David then informed Solomon of the preparations and materials made and procured for the building of the temple. David's time on earth was nearing and end and the most important things he had to prepare his son all revolved around God.
It is imperative and so beneficial for us to bring God into every aspect of our lives. We have limitations and weaknesses but God supplements for what we lack. David knew that Solomon would be successful (in heart, life, faith, and kingship) if he devoted himself to God.
22:17-18 Finally David highlighted that God was deserving of the reverence. David encouraged them to examine their lives and nation: it was all established, protected and sustained by God.
22:19 "Now set your heart and your soul to seek the Lord your God." In the old testament, we read of physical temples. In the New Testament, we learn that we are the temple of God, 1 Corinthians 3:16. He is within us; therefore, build for Him by building righteousness in yourself and your life.
