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Solomon Receives the Temple Plans

1 Chron. 28:11-21

“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.”

First, the plans for the temple (11-19). David passed on to Solomon detailed plans for the layout of the temple area, the organization of the temple servants, and the temple articles and furnishings. There was a beautiful partnership between the Lord, David and his son Solomon. The Spirit of God had revealed to David all the plans for the temple and he in turn shared them with Solomon his son (12). David had brought together all the materials and manpower to do the work. “All this,” David said, “I have in writing as a result of the Lord’s hand on me, and he enabled me to understand all the details of the plan.” Now it was up to Solomon who represented the next generation to implement the plans and do the building. Today, we are being built together to be a spiritual house in which God lives by his Spirit. We are each a living stone in God’s house. God is building his church through us as we worship him and carry out his world mission plans. God calls us to make disciples of all nations and he has promised to be with us to the end of the age (Mt 28:19-20).

Second, courage for the task (20-21). Solomon was young and inexperienced. He must have been a little afraid of the task at hand. However, he could have courage because God was with him. This had been the secret of David’s strength. 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” (20). Solomon could put his trust in God because God never fails or abandons his people. Jesus also said, “Do not be afraid.” He has entrusted us with his work and given us his Spirit. Although I may feel afraid, God is with me. If I trust in him, he will not let me be shaken.

Lord, give me courage to do your work, the work of your kingdom. Give courage to all your people today. Provide all the necessary wisdom and strength to carry out your will. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

One Word: Be courageous and do God’s work!