“Then King David rose to his feet and said: ‘Hear me, my brothers and my people. I had it in my heart to build a house of rest for the ark of the covenant of the Lord and for the footstool of our God, and I made preparations for building. But God said to me, “You may not build a house for my name, for you are a man of war and have shed blood…” Now therefore in the sight of all Israel, the assembly of the Lord, and in the hearing of our God, observe and seek out all the commandments of the Lord your God, that you may possess this good land and leave it for an inheritance to your children after you forever.
“’And you, Solomon my son, know the God of your father and serve him with a whole heart and with a willing mind, for the Lord searches all hearts and understands every plan and thought. If you seek him, he will be found by you, but if you forsake him, he will cast you off forever. Be careful now, for the Lord has chosen you to build a house for the sanctuary; be strong and do it.’
“Then David gave Solomon his son the plan of the vestibule of the temple, and of its houses, its treasuries, its upper rooms, and its inner chambers, and of the room for the mercy seat; and the plan of all that he had in mind… ‘All this he made clear to me in writing from the hand of the Lord, all the work to be done according to the plan.
“‘Be strong and courageous and do it. Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed, for the Lord God, even my God, is with you. He will not leave you or forsake you, until all the work for the service of the house of the Lord is finished…’
“’Solomon my son, whom alone God has chosen, is young and inexperienced, and the work is great, for the palace will not be for man but for the Lord God. So I have provided for the house of my God, so far as I was able.'” 1 Chronicles 28:2-3,8-12a,19-20; 29:1b-2a
David’s life had been rich, full, and productive with his God, igniting a message he would leave with his people and his successor son Solomon. He passed along, in word and example, admonition from on high that would illuminate their way forward and serve them well. Passionate devotion to the Lord yields significant, meaningful inspiration to others.
Our words lived out and commitments exercised inspire the actions of those around us, for good or ill. Whether we choose or not, others watch what we say, how we handle resources and opportunities, where we spend attention and affection. The decisions we make reflect the content of our hearts, and those who know us perceive our motivation. (1 Chronicles 29:3-9,20-22; Matthew 6:21)
How is my love for Christ influencing and charging my daily behavior? Are my actions consistent with my words? What kind of example am I within my home, workplace, church, neighborhood? What about my demeanor, interactions, work ethic, kindness, generosity inspires others to know God? To serve Him with a whole heart? To willingly give for His kingdom’s sake and joyfully praise Him?
Lord, so fill my heart with Thee that all I say and do exalts You and prompts others to do the same.
As the rain and snow 