DAY20 Not the One
Today’s Bible Reading
1 Chronicles 17:1–4, 16–25
Do as you promised, so that it will be established and that your name will be great forever. - 1 Chronicles 17:23–24
David had drawn up the plans. He designed the furniture. He collected the materials. He made all the arrangements (see 1 Chronicles 28:11–19). But the first temple built in Jerusalem is known as Solomon’s Temple, not David’s.
For God had said, “You are not the one” (1 Chronicles 17:4). God had chosen David’s son Solomon to build the temple. David’s response to this denial was exemplary. He focused on what God would do, instead of what he himself could not do (vv. 16–25). He maintained a thankful spirit. He did everything he could and rallied capable men to assist Solomon in building the temple (see 1 Chronicles 22).
Bible commentator J. G. McConville wrote: “Often we may have to accept that the work which we would dearly like to perform in terms of Christian service is not that for which we are best equipped, and not that to which God has in fact called us. It may be, like David’s, a preparatory work, leading to something more obviously grand.”
David sought God’s glory, not his own. He faithfully did all he could for God’s temple, laying a solid foundation for the one who would come after him to complete the work. May we, likewise, accept the tasks God has chosen for us to do and serve Him with a thankful heart! Our loving God is doing something “more obviously grand.”
By Poh Fang Chia
Questions:
1. What was David planning to do, and why (1 Chronicles 17:1-4)?
2. What did God say to David about this, and how did David respond (1 Chronicles 17:4, 16-25)?
3. Have you ever had an experience like David’s, where you wanted to do something good for God, but were rejected? Or you aspired to a certain post or position, but you were not chosen for it? Share your experience with the group, and share how David’s response to God could help you to obey Him in such situations.
Prayer:
Father, we want our hopes, dreams and hearts to align with Yours. Teach us to praise You when we are tempted to doubt Your goodness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.