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“I have set my affection on the house of my God” (1 Chr. 29:3). David spoke the forgoing words to express his consuming desire to see a great temple erected in Jerusalem by Solomon. These words simultaneously give an index to David’s love of God and point us to some attitudes needed in the kingdom today.
Why had David determined to have this temple built? 1) Because he had a palace of cedar and the Ark of God was in a tent (1 Chr. 17:1). He could not tolerate such an unequal circumstance. What a lesson is here for those who lavish only the finest on themselves but give mere tokens for God’s work. 2) Because he realized the work was great (1 Chr. 21:1). Until we understand how great the Lord’s work is, we will never invest much in it. 3) Because the building was not for man, but for God (1 Chr. 29:1). Those who complain at every lesson or appeal that concerns money to support God’s house, need to listen. It is against God’s, not man’s, work that you are complaining! 4) Because he loved the house of God. When we love the Lord and his church, we are never able to do or give too much.
What did his affection for God’s house cause him to do? 1) He determined to build the temple, as noted above. We must dream and plan and determine great things for God. 2) He began preparing with all of his might to fulfill his dream (1 Chr. 29: 2). Determined dreams are essential, but we will live in a mere dream world unless we work with all of our might to accomplish our dreams. 3) He gave his personal fortune (1 Chr. 29:3). Here we see the depth of David’s affection for God’s house. Talking and planning are cheap—big talkers and planners abound in every church. When it is time to work, many of the talkers and planners vanish. Also, when it is time to sacrifice, the talkers and planners often vanish. The “acid test” is the money test! David “put his money where his mouth was.” 4) He challenged others to give to this great work (1 Chron. 29:5). Why should elders and preachers ever be less than bold in urging God’s people to “offer willingly” unto God?
What were the results? 1) The people “offered willingly,” as David had urged (1 Chr. 29:6–8). If the leaders of God’s people set the right example in service, sacrifice and giving, urging them to follow, almost all will! 2) There was a great joy (1 Chr. 29:9, 17). There is truly great joy and happiness to be found in generosity, for “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). The stingy person is denying himself one of the greatest sources of joy in life. 3) The temple was built. When people who love God make great plans and sacrifice to accomplish them, God will bless them with success.
[Note: I wrote this article for and it was published in The Edifier, weekly bulletin of Pearl Street Church of Christ, Denton, TX, October 28, 1982, of which I was editor.]
Attribution: From thescripturecache.com; Dub McClish, owner and administrator.
