‏ 1 Chronicles 22

* David's preparations for the temple. (1-5) David's

instructions to Solomon. (6-16) The prices commanded to assist.

(17-19)

1-5 On occasion of the terrible judgment inflicted on Israel

for the sin of David, God pointed out the place where he would

have the temple built; upon which, David was excited to make

preparations for the great work. David must not build, but he

would do all he could; he prepared abundantly before his death.

What our hands find to do for God, and our souls, and those

round us, let us do it with all our might, before our death; for

after death there is no device nor working. And when the Lord

refuses to employ us in those services which we desired, we must

not be discouraged or idle, but do what we can, though in a

humbler sphere. 6-16 David gives Solomon the reason why he should build the

temple. Because God named him. Nothing is more powerful to

engage us in any service for God, than to know that we are

appointed thereto. Because he would have leisure and opportunity

to do it. He should have peace and quietness. Where God gives

rest, he expects work. Because God had promised to establish his

kingdom. God's gracious promises should quicken and strengthen

our religious service. David delivered to Solomon an account of

the vast preparations he had made for this building; not from

pride and vain-glory, but to encourage Solomon to engage

cheerfully in the great work. He must not think, by building the

temple, to purchase a dispensation to sin; on the contrary, his

doing that would not be accepted, if he did not take heed to

fulfil the statutes of the Lord. In our spiritual work, as well

as in our spiritual warfare, we have need of courage and

resolution. 17-19 Whatever is done towards rendering the word of God

generally known and attended to, is like bringing a stone, or an

ingot of gold, towards erecting the temple. This should

encourage us when we grieve that we do not see more fruit of our

labours; much good may appear after our death, which we never

thought of. Let us not then be weary of well doing. The work is

in the hands of the Prince of peace. As he, the Author and

Finisher of the work, is pleased to employ us as his

instruments, let us arise and be doing, encouraging and helping

one another; working by his rule, after his example, in

dependence on his grace, assured that he will be with us, and

that our labour shall not be in vain in the Lord.