Day 108

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Scripture

April 17—1 Chronicles 17-21: David's Influence and Kingdom Expansion

Observation

While David enjoys a palace of cedar, the ark of God resides in a mere tent—a fact that prompts David to contemplate a monumental building project. Even the prophet Nathan encourages David in his God-honoring ambition. But God had other plans; it would not be for David to build the Temple. Nevertheless, God gives David a heart-warming promise of an ongoing dynasty and eternal kingdom for his descendants. David, the mighty man of war, must leave the fulfillment of his dream to his son Solomon and concentrate on the business of enlarging the kingdom God has entrusted to him.

Application

Consider the following list of contrasts taken from the lives of a father and son: David and Solomon. David was a man of war—(David's life in chapters 18-20 reads like a chapter from World War II. In the space of these forty-four verses can be discovered at least a dozen different battles! Perhaps this might explain why God wanted Solomon not David to build the temple); Solomon was a man of peace. David dreamed of building the temple; Solomon erected and dedicated the temple. David was told by God, "I will not give you what you asked for"; Solomon was told, "I will give you what you did not ask for." And yet, in spite of the differences in their lives, there is one important similarity: both men glorified God.

There is something far more painful than being denied a cherished dream or ambition, and that is undertaking the ambition anyway, only to find that God is not in it. Has God set up a red light in your path? And are you "running the red light" or looking for "alternate routes" to his glory? Each time you stop for a red light today, commit one of your dreams or goals to God. Where he has put a period, don't you put a question mark!

Prayer

Lord, teach us to walk according to your will and not our own and to pray to you for our daily guidance instead of trying to force our dreams to reality when you are not in the midst. Give us this wisdom so that we may glorify you according to your will. In Jesus name, amen.

Study to Know God's Will!






© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2020

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