1 Chronicles 28:20 David also said to Solomon his son, “Be strong and courageous and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD God, my God is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you until all the work for the service of the temple of the LORD is finished.
TOO BIG A BURDEN
Have you ever been assigned a task that felt overwhelming? I remember the first time I decided to follow the Lord’s instruction to minister to the people in my community on Christmas Day over 20 years ago. I did my best to appear confident, but inside, I was terrified.
God gave David grand plans to build the temple where He would dwell, but David was required to pass the actual task to Solomon. When you read 1 Chronicles 28:11-20 today, you’ll discover a plethora of detailed requirements. Even the weight of the candlesticks was to be measured! The enormity could have seemed too much for Solomon, even with his father’s verbal and written instructions. But David knew it wasn’t, because Solomon wouldn’t be alone in his task.
As he passed the torch of this massive undertaking down to his son, David reminded Solomon to be strong and courageous. “Don’t be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you…” David also reminded Solomon that God would provide some human hands to assist him.
Perhaps today you needed to read this devotional from my heart to yours, so you could be encouraged similarly. You are not alone. God is with you. Ask Him to show you who your human helpers are, too! He never fails, and He will never fail you.
Psalm 31:24 Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the LORD.
Reflections: Early Christians faced persecution, which led to weariness and a dimming of their faith. However, enduring suffering is not something we do alone; our confidence comes from God, who sent His Son to share in our struggles and provide a path for believers to connect with Him. “Courage is an inner resolution to go forward despite obstacles.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
Philippians 1:28without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God
Prayer: Lord, grant me fresh courage when I’m tempted to grow fearful or discouraged by the monumental tasks ahead. When the details overwhelm me, remind me that You have never failed, and you won’t fail me now. Thank you, Father.
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