1 Chronicles 29 - 2 Chronicles 2

Click on the Scripture above to read today's Bible text!

What has God put on your heart to accomplish for His glory?

King David wanted to build a monument to the glory of Israel's God! He wanted to build a structure that would cause the whole world to know about Him. He wanted to evangelize the world so to speak. Notice the 5 characteristics of this magnificent project:

1) It will be different than any other building in the world! vs.1
2) It's not just another building...it's for God Himself! vs.1
3) David spent years gathering as much material and resources as possible! vs.2
4) David sacrifices much of his personal wealth for its success! vs.3-4
5) He challenges his leaders to do the same...and they do! vs.5

This free-will offering which involved a great deal of personal sacrifice brought a great deal of joy to David and to all that gave out of willing heart! Giving willingly is exactly how God wants all of us to give to His work!

Then, David prays to dedicate the Temple for God's honor and future glory. Notice David's heart as he prays to the Lord:

1) He PRAISED the Lord! vs.10
2) He gave all the GLORY to God for everything! vs.10
3) He acknowledged that EVERYTHING is God's! vs.11-12, 16
4) He acknowledged that God CONTROLS everything!
5) He humbled himself before God! vs.13-15
6) He acknowledged that God sees the HEART! vs.17
7) He begged God to help Israel to OBEY and LOVE Him! vs.18-19
8) He encouraged everyone to PRAISE and WORSHIP the Lord! vs.20
9) He encouraged people to bring SACRIFICES to God! vs.21-22

As we begin 2 Chronicles, you'll see how it reveals the TRUE standard for commitment as we read the stories of the kings who followed Solomon. Through their failures and faithfulness, we'll see how worship involves more than externals such as our wallets and our attendance at church. The picture of true worship is the total release of our hearts and wills to God. When God searches for and finds a heart that wholly belongs to Him, He summons the whole of Heaven in support!

In chapters 1 and 2, Solomon begins to build the Temple and delegates responsibilities to the right people. And, in addition to great delegation skills, God gives Solomon unusual wisdom!

Wouldn't it be awesome to have the Lord appear to you and ask the question, "What do you want? Ask, and I will give it to you!"? Well guess what! He did! In the book of Matthew 7:7, Jesus offers us the very same statement and promise! It was because Solomon was praying for something that was for the benefit of others and the glory of God that God answered His prayer! So often, we pray selfishly! God loves to answer prayers that benefit others and honor Him. What are you praying for?

Have a great day in the Lord!