Now, my son, the Lord be with you that you may be successful, and build the house of the Lord your God just as He has spoken concerning you. (verse 11)
What the Lord is Saying: In chapter 21 there is mention of a census that David does. The consequence of David's pride in doing the census is the falling of 70,000 men of Israel (21:7), and then David builds an altar on threshing floor which will be the location of the temple. Chapter 22 now picks up with this temple that is to be built. In verse 2, "David gave orders" to start gathering the items needed - "stonecutters to hew out stones", "iron to make the nails for the doors", "bronze", "timbers of cedar logs." Thus some items are mentioned.
Message: The Temple Builder
Time: 1 Chronicles has a mystery writer and focuses on David's reign though doesn't repeat David's sin with Bathsheba. It was written in the time of Ezra and Nehemiah or 538-333 BC while the Jews were dispersed throughout Persia, some having returned from Israel. The book lists genealogies, priests, Levites, armies, temple officials, and other leaders of various ministries and devotes significant attention to proper worship of Yahweh and adherence to the regulations of the Law. It focuses on obedience that results in God’s blessing, the priority of the temple and priesthood, and the unconditional promises to the house of David.
What the Lord is Saying: In chapter 21 there is mention of a census that David does. The consequence of David's pride in doing the census is the falling of 70,000 men of Israel (21:7), and then David builds an altar on threshing floor which will be the location of the temple. Chapter 22 now picks up with this temple that is to be built. In verse 2, "David gave orders" to start gathering the items needed - "stonecutters to hew out stones", "iron to make the nails for the doors", "bronze", "timbers of cedar logs." Thus some items are mentioned.
David mentions Solomon who might be about 18-20 at this time "young and inexperienced" and so David feels a need to do as much as he can on this project before his death. But ultimately David gives the charge to Solomon to build the temple in verses 7-16. David lets Solomon know that the work of building the temple falls on him - for a such time is it for him to build it. David engaged in other activities that were necessary, but now seen more as preparation for this work to be done by Solomon. He says that the Lord will be there for his son and give him "discretion and understanding." Solomon has prepared the materials and the tradesmen to do the work (verse 15). And finally states, "May the Lord be with you" (verse 16).
One purpose in building this temple is bringing the ark of the covenant to reside in it.
Summary: David, close to death, charges Solomon to build the temple, after gathering the material and labor groups for the building, stating the Lord will be with him.
Promise: There are different times for different purposes that God has laid out for his people to do.
Prayer: O God, you are rich in mercy. Thank you for your great love and helping me get back into your Word. Let it be a light for me. Thank you for the promise you have given to your people, to do your work and setting aside certain times for that work.
Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.
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