1 Chr 28

David has gathered all of the leaders of the nation of Israel together in the last year of his rule (970 BC). Despite his fragility at his age, he managed to stand before them and deliver his farewell speech and pass the mantle to Solomon before them. It was his heart's desire to build the temple but acknowledged before God and everyone that this was not to be. So he gave over the plans, in its entirety and the blessing of being king to Solomon as well as the advice that needed. Solomon needed to stay close to God and his will as well as have a relationship with Him in order to succeed. If the didn't, then the Lord would turn against him.  The Israelites had no choice in accepting Solomon as king but this was not David's intent but rather the Lord's. God gave to David the plans for the temple and thus was responsible for it. The Lord's presence would fill the temple. Thus, if Solomon stayed close to God he would succeed - not only in building the temple but in ruling the land and the kingdom of the house of David would rule eternally.

What a gorgeous chapter! God has laid the foundations through David for the potential of effective and powerful rule, if only... If only, has been the question that we all have asked - daily. How often do we include God in our planning stages rather than ask Him to clean up the mess that we have created? Do we ask Him to bless our decisions or do we ask Him from the outset? Here we see the plan that David laid out: My son Solomon, know the God whom your father serves. Serve God with all your heart and mind. Love him and obey him willingly. The LORD sees what is in our hearts. He knows every thought that is in our minds. If you look for him, you will find him. But if you turn from him, he will always refuse you. v10 Now be careful, because the LORD has chosen you to build a temple as his holy place. Be strong and do the work.’ - Easier said than done...

My knee is slowly getting better so I will put off seeing an orthopedist for now. Had a great convo with GG yesterday and am looking forward to seeing him next week. Hopefully, the 500 will not cost me an arm and a leg, but I am not getting my hopes up. If all is well, I may go to the BR game to see Brett Hart.

Praise for today: The Lord is in his holy temple; the Lord is on his heavenly throne. Psalm 11: 4