历代志上［第二十八章］
Book of 1 Chronicles 28
文章下载 ｜ Article Download
【你想要怎样？】
26/07/2024
引言：听从神还是听自己？你想要怎样？
一、人意与神意（V1-3）
28:1 大卫招聚以色列各支派的首领和轮班服侍王的军长，与千夫长、百夫长，掌管王和王子产业、牲畜的，并太监以及大能的勇士，都到耶路撒冷来。
28:2 大卫王就站起来，说：“我的弟兄、我的百姓啊，你们当听我言！我心里本想建造殿宇，安放耶和华的约柜，作为我 神的脚凳，我已经预备建造的材料。
28:3 只是神对我说：‘你不可为我的名建造殿宇，因你是战士，流了人的血。’
人有自发的意愿，但是神有更高的旨意。我们也许都想为神做某些事，无论大事或小事，但是神未必要我们如此行。大卫一心想要为神建筑殿宇，但是神嫌他流人血太多而不准他建圣殿。大卫选择顺服，但是依然为建殿预备了丰足的材料，哪怕是让后人来成就，也在所不惜。这是调整人意迁就神意，因此大卫赢得【合神心意】的美名。
你想怎样？神先爱了你：你要放下人意迁就神意，人生才会真有意义、真得意！
二、神选与人选（V4-7）
28:4 然而耶和华以色列的 神，在我父的全家拣选我作以色列的王，直到永远。因他拣选犹大为首领，在犹大支派中拣选我父家，在我父的众子里喜悦我，立我作以色列众人的王。
28:5 耶和华赐我许多儿子，在我儿子中拣选所罗门坐耶和华的国位，治理以色列人。
28:6 耶和华对我说：‘你儿子所罗门必建造我的殿和院宇，因为我拣选他作我的子；我也必作他的父。
28:7 他若恒久遵行我的诫命典章，如今日一样，我就必坚定他的国位，直到永远。’
当你回头看看自己走过的路，往往你会惊讶真是神的拣选啊！为什么事情总是怎么凑巧呢？是的！神定意拯救我们，都有祂美好的计划和带领，使我们有机会领受救恩，成为祂的器皿被主使用。但是不要忘记人也有自己的心志与选择，你若不是决心遵守主道，信心跟随到底，有许多人是半途而废，结果是前功尽弃啊！
你想怎样？是神先爱你，选择了你，但是你也要坚信选择神啊！
三、得着或失去（V8-9）
28:8 现今在耶和华的会中，以色列众人眼前所说的，我们的 神也听见了。你们应当寻求耶和华你们 神的一切诫命，谨守遵行，如此你们可以承受这美地，遗留给你们的子孙，永远为业。
28:9 “我儿所罗门哪，你当认识耶和华你父的 神，诚心乐意地侍奉他；因为他鉴察众人的心，知道一切心思意念。你若寻求他，他必使你寻见；你若离弃他，他必永远丢弃你。
一心寻求神的人既是愿意谨守遵行神的一切诫命，这样的人必然得着神的一切应许。你若诚心乐意事奉祂，祂必让你得着祂、经历祂、人生充满神迹奇事。相反的，人若轻看神，不珍惜神的应许，等于的“离弃神”，当然结果也正是被神离弃。那是何等可悲啊！
你想怎样？你是得着神的一切丰富应许？还是失去神的一切祝福？岂不是你自己的选择吗？
四、指示与分量（V10-19）
28:10 你当谨慎，因耶和华拣选你建造殿宇作为圣所。你当刚强去行。”
28:11 大卫将殿的游廊、旁屋、府库、楼房、内殿和施恩所的样式，指示他儿子所罗门。
28:12 又将被灵感动所得的样式，就是耶和华 神殿的院子、周围的房屋、殿的府库和圣物府库的一切样式都指示他。
28:13 又指示他祭司和利未人的班次，与耶和华殿里各样的工作，并耶和华殿里一切器皿的样式，
28:14 以及各样应用金器的分量，和各样应用银器的分量，
28:15 金灯台和金灯的分量，银灯台和银灯的分量，轻重各都合宜，
28:16 陈设饼金桌子的分量，银桌子的分量，
28:17 精金的肉叉子、盘子和爵的分量，各金碗与各银碗的分量，
28:18 精金香坛的分量，并用金子做基路伯（原文作“用金子做车式的基路伯”）。基路伯张开翅膀，遮掩耶和华的约柜。
28:19 大卫说：“这一切工作的样式，都是耶和华用手划出来使我明白的。”
神既是拣选，也是人要谨慎回应，按照神的指示、一切合乎神的规矩做事。大卫做事完全按照神的指示和蓝图，每一样物品都有其标准的分量。想想我们做事是否按照神的指示，是否事事做足分量。相反的就是为所欲为，偷工减料，马马虎虎，随随便便。原来这样的心态是不合乎神心意的。
你想怎样？想想你行事为人的态度如何？奉公守法吗？认真尽责吗？做足功夫吗？很显然，神要我们把心调对、把事做足。
总结：刚强行事、成就神殿（V20-21）
28:20 大卫又对他儿子所罗门说：“你当刚强壮胆去行！不要惧怕，也不要惊惶，因为耶和华 神就是我的 神，与你同在。他必不撇下你，也不丢弃你，直到耶和华殿的工作都完毕了。
28:21 有祭司和利未人的各班，为要办理 神殿各样的事；又有灵巧的人在各样的工作上乐意帮助你；并有众首领和众民一心听从你的命令。”
大卫 贵为一国之君，尚且以完成神的殿为优先大事。
我们岂不更当如此吗？因为我们就是神的殿，把生命搞好才是优先于一切之上！
1 Chronicles 28 What do you want?
GK611 Morning Devotion
26/07/2024
The Morning Devotion Speaker: Rev David Tan
Introduction: Should you obey God or yourself? What do you want?
1. Man’s will and God’s will (V1-3)
28:1 Now David assembled at Jerusalem all the leaders of Israel: the officers of the tribes and the captains of the divisions who served the king, the captains over thousands and captains over hundreds, and the stewards over all the substance and possessions of the king and of his sons, with the officials, the valiant men, and all the mighty men of valor.
28:2 Then King David rose to his feet and said, “Hear me, my brethren and my people: I had it in my heart to build a house of rest for the ark of the covenant of the Lord, and for the footstool of our God, and had made preparations to build it.
28:3 But God said to me, ‘You shall not build a house for My name, because you have been a man of war and have shed blood.’
Man has his own will, but God has a higher purpose. We may all want to do something for God, big or small, but God does not require us to do it. David wanted to build a temple for God, but God did not allow him to build a temple because he shed too much blood. David chose to obey, but still prepared ample materials for building the temple, even if it was left to future generations to complete it. This is to adjust human will to accommodate God’s will, so David earned the reputation of being “after God’s own heart”.
What do you want? God first loved you: Only when you let go of human will and accommodate God’s will then will your life be truly meaningful and truly satisfying!
2. God’s election and man’s choice (V4-7)
28:4 However the Lord God of Israel chose me above all the house of my father to be king over Israel forever, for He has chosen Judah to be the ruler. And of the house of Judah, the house of my father, and among the sons of my father, He was pleased with me to make me king over all Israel.
28:5 And of all my sons (for the Lord has given me many sons) He has chosen my son Solomon to sit on the throne of the kingdom of the Lord over Israel.
28:6 Now He said to me, ‘It is your son Solomon who shall build My house and My courts; for I have chosen him to be My son, and I will be his Father.
28:7 Moreover I will establish his kingdom forever, if he is steadfast to observe My commandments and My judgments, as it is this day.’
When you look back at the path you have travelled, you will often be surprised that it was God’s election! Why do things always happen by coincidence? Yes! God determined to save us, and He has His wonderful plans and guidance, giving us the opportunity to receive salvation and become His vessels to be used by the Lord. But don’t forget that people also have their own will and choices. If you are not determined to abide by the Lord’s way and follow with faith to the end, many people will give up halfway, and as a result, all their efforts will be wasted!
What do you want? It was God who loved you first and chose you, but you must also firmly believe in choosing God!
3. Gain or lose (V8-9)
28:8 Now therefore, in the sight of all Israel, the assembly of the Lord, and in the hearing of our God, be careful to seek out all the commandments of the Lord your God, that you may possess this good land, and leave it as an inheritance for your children after you forever.
28:9 “As for you, my son Solomon, know the God of your father, and serve Him with a loyal heart and with a willing mind; for the Lord searches all hearts and understands all the intent of the thoughts. If you seek Him, He will be found by you; but if you forsake Him, He will cast you off forever.
Since those who wholeheartedly seek God are willing to observe and obey all of God’s commandments, such people will surely receive all of God’s promises. If you sincerely and willingly serve Him, He will allow you to receive Him, experience Him, and your life will be filled with miracles and wonders. On the contrary, if a person despises God and does not cherish God’s promises, it is tantamount to “forsaking God”, and of course the result will be to be abandoned by God. How sad that is!
What do you want? Have you received all the rich promises of God? Or lose all God’s blessings? Isn’t it your own choice?
4. Instructions and weights (V10-19)
28:10 Consider now, for the Lord has chosen you to build a house for the sanctuary; be strong, and do it.”
28:11 Then David gave his son Solomon the plans for the vestibule, its houses, its treasuries, its upper chambers, its inner chambers, and the place of the mercy seat;
28:12 and the plans for all that he had by the Spirit, of the courts of the house of the Lord, of all the chambers all around, of the treasuries of the house of God, and of the treasuries for the dedicated things;
28:13 also for the division of the priests and the Levites, for all the work of the service of the house of the Lord, and for all the articles of service in the house of the Lord.
28:14 He gave gold by weight for things of gold, for all articles used in every kind of service; also silver for all articles of silver by weight, for all articles used in every kind of service;
28:15 the weight for the lampstands of gold, and their lamps of gold, by weight for each lampstand and its lamps; for the lampstands of silver by weight, for the lampstand and its lamps, according to the use of each lampstand.
28:16 And by weight he gave gold for the tables of the showbread, for each table, and silver for the tables of silver;
28:17 also pure gold for the forks, the basins, the pitchers of pure gold, and the golden bowls—he gave gold by weight for every bowl; and for the silver bowls, silver by weight for every bowl;
28:18 and refined gold by weight for the altar of incense, and for the construction of the chariot, that is, the gold cherubim that spread their wings and overshadowed the ark of the covenant of the Lord.
28:19 “All this,” said David, “the Lord made me understand in writing, by His hand upon me, all the works of these plans.”
Since God is the one who chooses, man must respond carefully and do things in accordance with God’s instructions and in accordance with God’s rules. David did everything according to God’s instructions and blueprint, and every item had its standard weight. Think about whether we are doing things according to God’s instructions and whether we are doing everything to the fullest extent. The opposite is to do whatever you want, cut corners, be thoughtless and careless. It turns out that such an attitude is not in line with God’s will.
What do you want? Think about how you behave as a person. Are you law-abiding? Are you conscientious and reliable? Did you put in enough effort? Obviously, God wants us to get our hearts right and do our best.
Conclusion: Be strong and fulfill the temple (V20-21)
28:20 And David said to his son Solomon, “Be strong and of good courage, and do it; do not fear nor be dismayed, for the Lord God—my God—will be with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you, until you have finished all the work for the service of the house of the Lord.
28:21 Here are the divisions of the priests and the Levites for all the service of the house of God; and every willing craftsman will be with you for all manner of workmanship, for every kind of service; also the leaders and all the people will be completely at your command.”
Even though David was the king of a country, he still prioritised completing the temple of God.
Shouldn’t we be more like this? Because we are the temple of God, doing a good job in life is our priority above all else!
录音在线播发 | Online audio player
历代志上［第二十七章］ Book of 1 Chronicles 27
历代志上［第二十七章］
Book of 1 Chronicles 27
文章下载 ｜ Article Download
【荣耀国度的建立匹夫有责】
25/07/2024
引言：在建立神荣耀的国度里，我们扮演什么角色？
一、军事的领袖（v1-15）
1. 全民皆兵
大卫将二十八万八千训练有素的精锐部队分十二队，轮流服役。每个人都有机会接受训练和服役。
教会中的事奉，不能只让少数人忙碌，大多数人旁观；也不能总是让有能力的人承担更多的工作，而是应该人人都有机会学习和操练。等到神给我们更大的场地时，我们才不会不知所措。
2. 影响后代
V5-6耶何耶大的儿子比拿雅除了是第三班的班长外，也负责管理30个勇士，后来更成为所罗门的元帅。他儿子暗米萨拔也跟随父亲在军中为国家效力。不要怕委身太多而限制神要提升我们的机会。如果我们这也不要、那也不行，不但我们会失去许多神给我们的福分，就是我们的孩子也不会羡慕善工，甚至觉得父母所信的神也不过如此。
3. 继续拓展
在大卫统一国家以前，亚撒黑就已经被押尼珥杀死。所以是他的儿子，西巴第雅统率第四支部队。但圣经却记录他的名。只要忠心服事神的人，不管其他人记不记得，神都会纪念。还有对西巴第雅来说，虽然父亲壮志未酬，未能亲眼目睹大卫的统一王国，但他却接续了父亲未完的心愿，为了以色列王国的统一尽了一份力量。
神国度的扩展需要很多神儿女的参与。我们不要等别人，我们都有责任起来，继承前辈未能完成的主工，继续拓展神的国度。
二、民事的领袖（v16-24）
1. 为土地来祝福
12个支派的行政长官有责任管理12支派的大地，让整个流奶与蜜之地为神效力。其实他就有点像是负责新加坡不同区域的部长。不但赋予权力照顾人民，更是要善用土地，并建设对民众有益的设施等。
今天我们作为神国的子民，神即赋予我们治理大地的使命，因此对地土我们也是有主权的。神的儿女要认领为自己所居住土地来祝福祷告，让福音的种子可以撒下并发芽。神也把顺福社区给了教会，所以我们要宣告神的管治和平安要临到顺福社区。
2. 看重国度利益
V21提到管便雅悯人的是押尼珥的儿子雅西业。押尼珥曾经追杀大卫，阻挡他统一以色列。但大卫却让仇敌之子雅西业负责管便雅悯人。这里让我们看到大卫宽大胸襟。他把国度的利益放在个人的恩怨之上。
我们唯一的仇敌就只是撒旦。所以要超越个人的得失，以彼此相爱来击垮仇敌。
三、产业管理人（v25-31）
这里列出了大卫的动产和不动产的产业管理人。对今天的社会来说，这些产业管理人，就像被神放在职场上不同岗位的基督徒。
教会是七山之首。神在这些山头不同的行业里赋予我们管理的权利。因此，我们要在工作中产生基督徒的影响力，作首不作尾、居上不居下，在职场上带下神的祝福。转化职场，也将职场的丰盛转移到神的国度里。
从个人的层面，我们是神产业的好管家吗？我们的钱是只用在自己的享受和宴乐上？还是我们会看顾神家，弱势群体和贫穷人的需要？
四、神国的谋士（v32-34）
从撒母耳记的记载我们知道这些谋士和元帅有些是满了残缺的人。v33亚希多弗深受大卫的信任，但却参与了押沙龙的反叛。因为计谋被户筛破坏，最终自杀身亡。v34祭司亚比亚他和元帅约押忠于大卫，最后却支持亚多尼雅。结果一个被废、一个被杀。
作为神国的谋士或元帅，我们要忠心与谦卑。当我们被神提升、重用的时候，我们更是要提高戒备，更谨慎的保守我们的心。并且教会的核心同工和理事们，是教会的决策与领导的主要团队。在带领教会前进时，不止要同心同行，更要积极主动的领受从神而来的启示和计划，带领教会的弟兄姐妹一起建立神的荣耀国度。
总结：
•神荣耀国度的建造，匹夫有责。没有一个人是应该闲着白站地土的。
•职场的弟兄姐妹，是要在各行各业中成为有影响力、带下神国来转化职场的器皿。将列国的财富转移到神的国度里。
•牧者、传道、全职同工，要严谨的看待神的呼召，作群羊的榜样。带领弟兄姐妹们一起建立神的荣耀国度。
1 Chronicles 27 The Establishment of a Glorious Kingdom is Everyone’s Responsibility
GK611 Morning Devotion
25/07/2024
The Morning Devotion Speaker: Ps Deborah Tan
Introduction: What is our role in the building of God’s glorious kingdom?
1. Military leaders (v1-15)
(1) All the people are soldiers
David divided the 288,000 well-trained elite troops into twelve teams and rotated them into service. Everyone had the opportunity to be trained and served.
The ministry in the church should not be kept busy by a few while the majority stand by; nor should it always be more work for those who are able, but everyone should have the opportunity to learn and be racticed. When God gives us a bigger field, we will not be overwhelmed.
(2) Influencing the future generations
V5-6 Benaiah, the son of Jehoiada, in addition to being the commander of the third class, was also in charge of 30 warriors and later became Solomon’s general. His son, Ammizabad also followed his father in the army to serve the nation. Don’t be afraid of committing too much and limiting the opportunities that God wants to promote us. If we don’t do this or that, not only will we lose many of the blessings that God has given us, but our children will not envy the good works, and will even think that the God that their parents believe in is merely this.
(3) Continued expansion
Before David unified the country, Asahel had already been killed by Abner. So it was his son, Zebadiah, who commanded the fourth army. Yet the Bible records his name. God remembers anyone who serves Him faithfully, whether others remember or not. And for Zebadiah, although his father’s ambition was not fulfilled and he was not able to witness the unification of David’s kingdom, he took up his father’s unfinished business and did his part for the unification of the kingdom of Israel.
The expansion of God’s kingdom requires the participation of many of God’s children. Let us not wait for others, we all have the responsibility to rise up and continue to expand the kingdom of God by carrying on the unfinished work of the Lord that our predecessor failed to accomplish.
2. Civil Leaders (v16-24)
(1) Blessing the land
The administrator of the 12 tribes has the responsibility to administer the earth of the 12 tribes so that the whole land flowing with milk and honey will serve God. In fact he is a bit like a minister in charge of the different regions of Singapore. He is not only empowered to take care of the people, but also to make the best use of the land and build facilities etc. that are beneficial to the people.
Today, as the people of the kingdom of God, God has given us the mission to govern the land, and therefore we have sovereignty over the land. God’s children need to bless and pray for the land they live on, so that the seeds of the gospel can be sown and germinate. God has also given the Shunfu community to the church, so we want to proclaim that God’s rule and peace will come to the Shunfu community.
(2) Valuing the interests of the kingdom
V21 mentions that the one who was in charge of the Benjamites was Jaasiel, the son of Abner. He had hunted down David and prevented him from uniting Israel. But David put his enemy’s son, Jaasiel, in charge of the Benjamites. Here we see David’s generosity. He put the good of the kingdom above his personal grudges.
Our only enemy is Satan. So look beyond personal gain and loss and love one another to bring down the enemy.
3. Managers of the property (v25-31)
The administrators of David’s movable and immovable property are listed here. For today’s society, these property managers are like Christians who have been placed by God in different positions in the workplace.
The church is the head of the seven mountains. God has given us the right to manage in different industries on these mountains. Therefore, we are to produce Christian impact in the workplace, to be the head and not the tail, to be at the top and not at the bottom, and to bring down God’s blessings in the workplace. Transforming the workplace also transfers the abundance of the workplace to the kingdom of God.
On a personal level, are we good stewards of God’s property? Do we spend our money only on our own enjoyment and feasting? Or do we look after the needs of God’s family, the disadvantaged and the poor?
4. The counsellors of the kingdom of God (v32-34)
From the account in Samuel we know that some of these counsellors and generals were full of cripples. v33 Ahithophel was highly trusted by David, but was involved in Absalom’s rebellion. Because the scheme was sabotaged by Hushai , he eventually committed suicide. v34 Abiathar the priest and Joab the general were loyal to David but ended up supporting Adonijah. As a result, one was deposed and the other killed.
As counsellors or generals of the kingdom of God, we are to be faithful and humble. When we are promoted and reappointed by God, we have to be even more vigilant and guard our hearts more carefully. Moreover, the core co-workers and board members of the church are the main team of decision-making and leadership in the church. When leading the church forward, we should not only walk together with one heart, but also proactively receive the revelation and plan from God, and lead the brothers and sisters in the church to build up the glorious kingdom of God together.
Conclusion:
•- The building of God’s glorious kingdom is the responsibility of all. No one is supposed to stand idly on the earth for nothing.
•- The brothers and sisters in the workplace are to be influential and bring down the kingdom of God in all walks of life to transform the vessels in the workplace. Transferring the wealth of the nations to the kingdom of God.
•- Pastors, evangelists, and full-time co-workers to take a critical look at God’s calling and be an example to the flock. -Lead brothers and sisters to build up God’s glorious kingdom together.
录音在线播发 | Online audio player
历代志上［第二十六章］ Book of 1 Chronicles 26
历代志上［第二十六章］
Book of 1 Chronicles 26
文章下载 ｜ Article Download
【忠诚与守护的职责】
24/07/2024
大卫为圣殿做的准备工作，除了管理圣殿的事务，和音乐的事奉以外，还包括守门的工作，和做官长士师的人。
一、守卫的职责和分配（v1-19）
1. 守卫神所托(v1-12）
守门人的家族，主要是可拉族和米拉利族。他们共有四千人，其中有大能的壮士、善于办事的壮士、精明的谋士，可见守门的事奉并不是一个简单的工作，而是紧要的职任。今天，教会就像过去的圣殿，需要有忠心的守卫者。
2. 顺服神分配（v13-19)
守门人的职责分布在圣殿的四个门口，共有二十四个岗位。因为神是圣洁的，因此圣殿不能任人随意进出。守门的人需要有智慧谨慎分辨：什么人可以接纳、什么人不得进出。这提醒我们，我们需要在教会和个人生活中保持圣洁和谨慎，防止错误和有害的思想进入我们的心灵和教会。
二、财物管理者的职责（v20-28）
掌管府库的利未人来自革顺族（20-22节）和哥辖族（23-26节）。当中包括神殿的府库，就是收藏老百姓一般的奉献，还有平常献祭用设备和器具的地方。还有就是圣物的府库，就是用来储存在打仗中掳来的战利品的地方。他们都尽心的管理神的财物。
今天，我们是否在神所赐给我们的金钱、时间和资源的管理上忠心？
三、官员和士兵的分配（v29-32）
以斯哈族的基拿尼雅和他的众子，成为行政官和士师。他们负责管理以色列的外事，就是以色列的四境和与列国相交的事。 哈沙比雅和他弟兄一千七百，全是官长和壮士，在约旦河西，负责办理耶和华与王的事。而耶利雅作族长，他的弟兄有二千七百人，都是壮士，且作族长，大卫王派他们在约旦河东的3个半支派，办理神和王的事。
我们要在神的国度中成为神所重用的器皿，我们就要学像利未人，对神的话语有深刻的理解和认知；在自己的职责中表现出值得信赖的品格和能力；无论在哪一个领域，我们都应当尽心尽责。
总结：成为神忠诚的仆人
我们当在日常生活中，时刻记住我们的职责和神的选召，尽心尽力去完成神托付给我们的任务，并在各自岗位上尽职尽责。
1 Chronicles 26
Duties of Faithfulness and Guardianship
GK611 Morning Devotion
24/07/2024
The Morning Devotion Speaker: Ps Stella Ling
David’s preparations for the temple included, in addition to the administration of the affairs of the temple, and the ministry of the music, the guarding of the gates, and the men who were officials and judges.
1. The duties and assignments of the gatekeepers (v1-19)
(1) Guard what God has entrusted (v1-12)
The families of the gatekeepers were chiefly the Korahites and the Merarites. They were 4,000 in number, and among them were mighty and strong men, strong men who were good at their work,. It is evident that the ministry of the gatekeeping was not a simple job, but a very important ministry. Today, the church, like the temple of old times, needs faithful gatekeepers.
(2) Obedience to God’s distribution (v13-19)
The duties of the gatekeepers were distributed over the four gates of the temple, with a total of twenty-four posts. Because God is holy, the temple could not be left to the whims of men. The gatekeepers needed to be wise and prudent in discerning who could be admitted and who should not enter or leave. This reminds us that we need to be holy and careful in our church and personal lives to prevent wrong and harmful thoughts from entering our hearts and churches.
2. The duties of the treasury managers (v20-28)
The Levites in charge of the treasury were from the tribes of Gershon (v20-22) and Kohath (v23-26). These included the treasury of the temple, where the general offerings of the people were kept, as well as the equipment and utensils for the usual sacrifices. There was also the treasury of the holy things, where the spoils of war were stored. They were all diligent stewards of God’s treasures.
Are we faithful today in the stewardship of the money, time and resources God has given us?
3. The distribution of officers and soldiers (v29-32)
Chenaniah and his sons from the tribe of the Izharites became magistrates and judges. They were responsible for the administration of Israel’s foreign affairs, that is, the four borders of Israel and its intercourse with the nations. Hashabiah and his brethren, one thousand seven hundred able men, all officers and strong men, were in charge of the affairs of the Lord and of the king, west of the Jordan. And Jerijah was the tribe leader, and his brethren, his brethren were two thousand seven hundred able men, all strong men and tribe leaders, whom King David sent to conduct the affairs of God and of the king in the three and a half tribes east of the Jordan.
If we want to be God’s valued vessels in His kingdom, we have to learn to be like the Levites, who had a deep understanding and knowledge of God’s Word; who demonstrated trustworthy character and ability in their duties; and who should do their best in whatever field they are in.
Conclusion: Becoming a faithful servant of God
In our daily lives, we should always remember our duties and God’s election, do our best to fulfill the tasks entrusted to us by God, and do our best in our respective positions.
录音在线播发 | Online audio player
历代志上［第二十五章］ Book of 1 Chronicles 25
历代志上［第二十五章］
Book of 1 Chronicles 25
文章下载 ｜ Article Download
【家人精神的敬拜事奉】
23/07/2024
一、父传子的敬拜事奉（V1-6）
大卫和众首领分派亚萨、希幔和耶杜顿三位诗班领袖都是先知，所唱的都是从神而来的信息，可见大卫对诗歌敬拜的重视。
第2、3、6节所提到被拣选的敬拜者，都归在他们父亲的指教之下。每天除了值班的时间，其余时间都在学习与父亲一同事奉，从父亲身上学习敬拜的技巧，以及敬拜的生命！这样的教导模式提醒我们，事奉的传承，除了要延续在服事中累积的知识和技巧，更重要的是激励、启发下一代事奉神的心志，进而带出更荣美的敬拜！
我们从大卫的安排，看见对神的敬拜和渴望是要在事奉中建立下一代！让敬拜的渴慕不只停留在现在，而是要为了将来传承下去！
我们在事奉神的道路上，也应当时常思想：如何在敬拜神的事上，不断地向属灵的长辈学习，靠主更新生命，不让敬拜的生命停滞枯干，并学习成为传承者，在与人同工的过程中，不吝于教导和传承！唯有如此，我们才能真实地活出敬拜的生命，如同大卫一样，渴望一生一世住在耶和华的殿中！
二、父子兄弟同班服事（V1-6）
唱诗赞美在整个敬拜神的过程中，具有特别重要的地位，因为不是一个人在服事，每一个班次都是十二个人。我们看见掣签掣出来的，是他和他弟兄并儿子共12人，这样的一句话，反复出现了24次，他们都是一家人。我们看见这里的团队都是父子和兄弟，都是家人。
教会的诗班敬拜团，直到今天都是一群人。与人相处并不容易，因为每个人的包容心都不尽相同，每个人的能力和看法也不一样。每个人都想按照神的话去做，都是想敬拜神，但是可能我觉得往左走是对的，你觉得往右走才是对。
所以，我们首先要成为一家人，认定自己是神家庭的一员，我们是弟兄姐妹，都是神的儿女，在主的带领下来看待纷争。否则我们很难合一，就像唱诗歌，有人要唱高调，有人要唱低调；你要唱快歌，我要唱慢歌，那就没办法一起敬拜事奉了！
其实，不止是敬拜事奉如此，所有神的事工都是这样——先关系后事工。所以，我们要先重视跟弟兄姊妹的关系，有问题就要修复，一个团队彼此没有隔阂，没有纷争，才可能喜乐的同心前进，带下神的荣耀。
总结：
我们必要先与弟兄姐妹建立家人的和睦关系，才能有美好的服事。
让我们成为亚萨、希幔和耶杜顿那样，全心事奉神的时候，也传承服事生命给后代，神就让他们的儿子，都甘心乐意地跟着他们事奉神。
1 Chronicles 25 Ministry of Worship in the Spirit of Family
GK611 Morning Devotion
23/07/2024
The Morning Devotion Speaker: Ps Daniel Kew
1. The worship service passed down from father to son (V1-6)
David and the leaders assigned three choir leaders, Asaph, Heman, and Jeduthun, who were all prophets, and what they sang were all messages from God. This shows that David valued great importance to singing and worship.
The chosen worshippers mentioned in verses 2, 3, and 6 were all under the guidance of their father. Except for the time on duty every day, they spend the rest of the time learning to serve with their father, learning the skills of worship and the life of worship from their father! This teaching model reminds us that the inheritance of service should not only continue the knowledge and skills accumulated in service, but more importantly, motivate and inspire the next generation to serve God, thereby leading to more glorious worship!
From David’s arrangement, we see that the worship and desire for God is to build up the next generation in the service! Let the desire to worship not only stay in the present but be passed down for the future!
On the way to serve God, we should always think about: how to continuously learn from our spiritual elders in worshipping God, renewing our lives by relying on the Lord, preventing the life of worship from becoming stagnant and dry up, and learning to become benefactor in the process of working with others, do not hesitate to teach and pass on! Only in this way can we truly live a life of worship, just like David, who longs to live in the temple of the Lord all our lives!
2. Fathers, sons and brothers serve in the same class (V1-6)
Singing and praising play a particularly important role in the entire process of worshipping God, because it is not one person serving, but twelve people in each class. We saw that the ones drawn by lot were him, his brothers, and his sons, a total of 12 people. This sentence was repeated 24 times. They were all part of one family.We see that the teams here are fathers and sons and brothers, and they were all one family.
The church’s choir and worship team are still a group of people to this day. It is not easy to get along with others, because everyone’s tolerance is different, and everyone’s abilities and opinions are also different. Everyone wants to follow God’s Words and worship God, but maybe I think it’s right to go to the left, and you think it’s right to go to the right.
Therefore, we must first become one family and identify ourselves as members of God’s family. We are brothers and sisters, all children of God, and we must deal with disputes under the leadership of the Lord. Otherwise, it will be difficult for us to be united, just like when singing hymns, some people want to sing high notes, and some people want to sing low notes; you want to sing fast songs, and I want to sing slow songs, and then there will be no way to worship and serve together!
In fact, this is true not only of worship services, but also of all God’s ministries—Ministry before relationship. Therefore, we must first pay attention to the relationship with our brothers and sisters and restore any problems if they arise. Only when there are no barriers or disputes between us as a team can we happily move forward together and bring down God’s glory.
Conclusion：
We must first establish a harmonious family relationship with our brothers and sisters before we can have a wonderful service.
Let us be like Asaph, Heman, and Jeduthun. When we serve God wholeheartedly, we also pass on our serving life to future generations. God will allow their sons to follow them and serve God willingly
录音在线播发 | Online audio player
箴言［第3篇］ Book of Proverbs 3
<
Book of Proverbs 3
文章下载 ｜ Article Download
22/07/2024
1 我儿,不要忘记我的法则。(或作指教)你心要谨守我的诫命。
2 因为他必将长久的日子,生命的年数,与平安,加给你。
3 不可使慈爱诚实离开你。要系在你颈项上,刻在你心版上。
4 这样,你必在神和世人眼前蒙恩宠,有聪明。
5 你要专心仰赖耶和华,不可倚靠自己的聪明。
6 在你一切所行的事上,都要认定他,他必指引你的路。
7 不要自以为有智慧。要敬畏耶和华,远离恶事。
8 这便医治你的肚脐,滋润你的百骨。
9 你要以财物,和一切初熟的土产,尊荣耶和华。
10 这样,你的仓房,必充满有余,你的酒榨,有新酒盈溢。
11 我儿,你不可轻看耶和华的管教,(或作惩治)也不可厌烦他的责备。
12 因为耶和华所爱的,他必责备。正如父亲责备所喜爱的儿子。
13 得智慧,得聪明的,这人便为有福。
14 因为得智慧胜过得银子,其利益强如精金。
15 比珍珠(或作红宝石)宝贵。你一切所喜爱的,都不足与比较。
16 他右手有长寿。左手有富贵。
17 他的道是安乐,他的路全是平安。
18 他与持守他的作生命树。持定他的俱各有福。
19 耶和华以智慧立地。以聪明定天。
20 以知识使深渊裂开,使天空滴下甘露。
21 我儿,要谨守真智慧和谋略。不可使他离开你的眼目。
22 这样,他必作你的生命,颈项的美饰。
23 你就坦然行路,不至碰脚。
24 你躺下,必不惧怕。你躺卧,睡得香甜。
25 忽然来的惊恐,不要害怕。恶人遭毁灭,也不要恐惧。
26 因为耶和华是你所倚靠的。他必保守你的脚不陷入网罗。
27 你手若有行善的力量,不可推辞,就当向那应得的人施行。
28 你那里若有现成的,不可对邻舍说,去吧,明天再来,我必给你。
29 你的邻舍,既在你附近安居,你不可设计害他。
30 人未曾加害与你,不可无故与他相争。
31 不可嫉妒强暴的人,也不可选择他所行的路。
32 因为乖僻人为耶和华所憎恶。正直人为他所亲密。
33 耶和华咒诅恶人的家庭,赐福与义人的居所。
34 他讥诮那好讥诮的人,赐恩给谦卑的人。
35 智慧人必承受尊荣。愚昧人高升也成为羞辱。
录音在线播放 | Online audio player
箴言［第2篇］ Book of Proverbs 2
<
Book of Proverbs 2
文章下载 ｜ Article Download
21/07/2024
1 我儿,你若领受我的言语,存记我的命令,
2 侧耳听智慧,专心求聪明。
3 呼求明哲,扬声求聪明,
4 寻找他如寻找银子,搜求他如搜求隐藏的珍宝,
5 你就明白敬畏耶和华,得以认识神。
6 因为耶和华赐人智慧。知识和聪明,都由他口而出。
7 他给正直人存留真智慧,给行为纯正的人作盾牌。
8 为要保守公平人的路,护庇虔敬人的道。
9 你也必明白仁义,公平,正直,一切的善道。
10 智慧必入你心。你的灵要以知识为美。
11 谋略必护卫你。聪明必保守你。
12 要救你脱离恶道,(恶道或作恶人的道)脱离说乖谬话的人。
13 那等人舍弃正直的路,行走黑暗的道,
14 欢喜作恶,喜爱恶人的乖僻。
15 在他们的道中弯曲,在他们的路上偏僻。
16 智慧要救你脱离淫妇,就是那油嘴滑舌的外女。
17 她离弃幼年的配偶,忘了神的盟约。
18 她的家陷入死地,她的路偏向阴间。
19 凡到她那里去的不得转回,也得不着生命的路。
20 智慧必使你行善人的道,守义人的路。
21 正直人必在世上居住。完全人必在地上存留。
22 惟有恶人必然剪除。奸诈的必然拔出。
录音在线播放 | Online audio player
箴言［第1篇］ Book of Proverbs 1
<
Book of Proverbs 1
文章下载 ｜ Article Download
20/07/2024
1 以色列王大卫儿子所罗门的箴言。
2 要使人晓得智慧和训诲。分辨通达的言语。
3 使人处事,领受智慧,仁义,公平,正直的训诲。
4 使愚人灵明,使少年人有知识和谋略。
5 使智慧人听见,增长学问。使聪明人得着智谋。
6 使人明白箴言和譬喻,懂得智慧人的言词和谜语。
7 敬畏耶和华是知识的开端。愚妄人藐视智慧和训诲。
8 我儿,要听你父亲的训诲,不可离弃你母亲的法则。(或作指教)
9 因为这要作你头上的华冠,你项上的金链。
10 我儿,恶人若引诱你,你不可随从。
11 他们若说,你与我们同去,我们要埋伏流人之血,要蹲伏害无罪之人。
12 我们好像阴间,把他们活活吞下。他们如同下坑的人,被我们囫囵吞了。
13 我们必得各样宝物,将所掳来的装满房屋。
14 你与我们大家同分。我们共用一个囊袋。
15 我儿,不要与他们同行一道。禁止你脚走他们的路。
16 因为他们的脚奔跑行恶,他们急速流人的血。
17 好像飞鸟,网罗设在眼前仍不躲避。
18 这些人埋伏,是为自流己血。蹲伏是为自害己命。
19 凡贪恋财利的,所行之路,都是如此。这贪恋之心,乃夺去得财者之命。
20 智慧在街市上呼喊,在宽阔处发声。
21 在热闹街头喊叫,在城门口,在城中发出言语。
22 说你们愚昧人喜爱愚昧,亵慢人喜欢亵慢,愚顽人恨恶知识,要到几时呢?
23 你们当因我的责备回转。我要将我的灵浇灌你们,将我的话指示你们。
24 我呼唤你们不肯听从。我伸手,无人理会。
25 反轻弃我一切的劝戒,不肯受我的责备。
26 你们遭灾难,我就发笑惊恐临到你们,我必嗤笑。
27 惊恐临到你们,好像狂风,灾难来到,如同暴风。急难痛苦临到你们身上。
28 那时,你们必呼求我,我却不答应,恳切的寻找我,却寻不见。
29 因为你们恨恶知识,不喜爱敬畏耶和华,
30 不听我的劝戒,藐视我一切的责备,
31 所以必吃自结的果子,充满自设的计谋。
32 愚昧人背道,必杀己身,愚顽人安逸,必害己命。
33 惟有听从我的,必安然居住,得享安静,不怕灾祸。
录音在线播放 | Online audio player
历代志上［第二十四章］ Book of 1 Chronicles 24
历代志上［第二十四章］
Book of 1 Chronicles 24
文章下载 ｜ Article Download
【属世与属灵的法则】
19/07/2024
引言：你按什么标准为行事原则？
一、大祭司两个儿子之死（V1-2）
亚伦大祭司本有最荣耀的职分，但是亚伦也有不完全之处，这是否导致他的头两名儿子也受了不良影响？这一点无法证实。但是拿答、亚比户之死是因为他们在献祭的事情上“献凡火”（民3:4）。这是指不圣洁、不合宜、不被神所接受的行为，所以神让他们死。
不按神的法则作属神的事，结果是死的！虽然今天有耶稣基督代替我们死，因此我们不必死，但是这种“死的服事”（既是不按神真理的法则所做的事）又怎么会蒙福呢？
二、承接别人失去的祝福（V3-6）
大祭司可以说是全以色列中最神圣和荣耀的职分，因为全国之中无论有多少爱神的人，他们都没有机会贴近约柜，进入至圣所；唯独大祭司有这样的特权。这是全国最尊贵的圣职不是吗？可惜亚伦的长子、二子都失去了这样的机会。结果三子和四子就承接了大祭司的职分。这好比说，当有人不珍惜自己所拥有的服事，而我们哪怕只是一个无名小子，只能默然跟随。岂不知当前人不珍惜的时候，神可以拿走本属前人祝福，而转交给哪忠心跟随的人。
三、抽签制定圣殿24班次（V7-19）
br>
亚伦的子孙都是祭司，但是彼此要怎么分配工作呢？透过抽签，意思就上说不是人来决定，而说神的决定，按神的旨意所安排。
照着属灵领袖前辈所领受而制定的条例做属灵的事！这岂不也是一种真理的原则吗？神让教会的属灵领导人有异象和领受，今天我们如果是作为教会的信徒、跟随者，我们都赋予了参与的机会，但是在什么教会就要按照什么教会的规矩做事，这是理所当然的。
四、圣俗结合的管理法则（20-31）
大卫作王时的大祭司是撒督，这位作为属灵界的最高领袖，和当时当政的最高领袖大卫王，共同以神的法则制定祭司利未人的工作职责，这表明世界的管理，和属灵的管理本来就应该是结合的。而且都要按照神的法则做事。
总结：活出整合的生命
我们是活在世属世界的属灵人！我们的生活就是基督生命的再现···。
1 Chronicles Chapter 24: Worldly and Spiritual Laws
GK611 Morning Devotion
19/07/2024
The Morning Devotion Speaker: Rev David Tan
Introduction: By what standards do you act?
1. Death of the two sons of the high priest (V1-2)
Aaron, the high priest, originally had the most glorious position, but Aaron also had imperfections. Did this cause his first two sons to also be adversely affected? This cannot be confirmed. But the death of Nadab and Abihu was because they “offered profane fire” in the matter of sacrifice (Numbers 3:4). This refers to behaviour that is unholy, inappropriate, and unacceptable to God, so God allows them to die.
If you don’t do God’s things according to God’s laws, the result will be death! Although Jesus Christ died for us today, so we do not have to die, how can this kind of “dead service” (since it is not done according to the laws of God’s truth) be blessed?
2. Inherit the lost blessings of others (V3-6)
The high priest can be said to be the most sacred and glorious office in all of Israel, because no matter how many people in the country love God, they do not have the opportunity to get close to the ark of God and enter the Holy of Holies; only the high priest has such a privilege. This is the most noble priesthood in the country, isn’t it? It’s a pity that Aaron’s eldest son and second son both lost this opportunity. As a result, the third and fourth sons took over the duties of high priest. This is like saying that when someone does not cherish the service they have, even if we are just a nobody, we can follow silently. Don’t you know that when the current people don’t cherish it, God can take away the blessings that belong to the previous people and transfer them to those who follow them faithfully?
3. Draw lots to determine the 24 divisions (V7-19)
Aaron’s descendants are all priests, but how do they allocate work among themselves? By drawing lots, it means that it is not decided by humans, but that is God’s decision and it is arranged according to God’s will.
Do spiritual things according to the regulations established by the spiritual leaders before you! Isn’t this also a principle of truth? God allows the spiritual leaders of the church to have visions and inspirations. Today, as believers and followers of the church, we are all given the opportunity to participate. However, it is natural that we should act in accordance with the rules of the church in whichever church we are in.
4. Laws of management of the integration of sacred and secular matters (20-31)
The high priest when David was king was Zadok. As the highest leader in the spiritual world, he and King David, the highest leader in power at that time, jointly formulated the work responsibilities of the priests and Levites according to God’s laws. This shows that the world’s management and spiritual management should be integrated. And everything must be done according to God’s laws.
Conclusion: Live an integrated life
We are spiritual beings living in the world! Our life is a reproduction of the life of Christ.
录音在线播发 | Online audio player
历代志上［第二十三章］ Book of 1 Chronicles 23
历代志上［第二十三章］
Book of 1 Chronicles 23
文章下载 ｜ Article Download
【圣殿事奉的生命】
18/07/2024
引言：
第22章记载了大卫为建造圣殿准备材料，并嘱咐所罗门为神建造圣殿，还吩咐以色列的众首领帮助他的儿子所罗门。
今天来到第23章，主要讲述了大卫设立圣殿服事的利未团队。利未人对圣殿是非常重要的。为圣殿的行政管理与祭祀体制，所有规划都需清楚安排。
一、立所罗门为君王（V1）
大卫年纪老迈，立所罗门作王。短短的一节经文可以给我们很多思想。
第一是大卫对神的心，渴慕在有生之年尽心来服事神。不能建殿就积极的预备建殿的材料。
第二，大卫没有把贵重的资产留给所罗门做君王的家产，而是嘱咐儿子是作为建殿的用途。父母要传承或留给孩子的应该是一颗爱神敬畏神的心。
第三，当我们在为下一代预备、铺平道路时，要带着他们一起的来参与在当中，让他们也一起的来经历神。
二、利未人数和家谱（V2-23）
2-6节是数点全体利未人的数目。大卫招聚以色列的众首领和祭司利未人，并且数点30岁以上的利未人，男丁的数目共有三万八千人。
V7-23列出了利未人的三大家族的族谱。V7-11是革顺家族；V12-20是哥辖家族。当中就特别提到了摩西和他的家庭，以及亚伦的子孙，后者被特别拣选出来担任祭司；在圣所中负责最神圣的事奉，就是在耶和华面前烧香。V21-24描述了米拉利家族。
三、圣别的事奉生命（V 24-32）
1.人人都当事奉神（V24-27）
2.分别为圣的要求（V28）
3.敬虔公正敬畏神（V29）
4.早晚献上感恩祭（V30）
5.按神节奏守节日（V31-32）
总结：
作为神所拣选的利未人，我们都有责任来兴旺神的教会，并在我们所在之处，无论是家中，是社区，是职场，持守圣洁、以心灵诚实来敬拜神。
整个国家与社会的兴旺，与我们有没有在职场和家庭中以圣别的生命来事奉神是息息相关的。敬虔敬畏神的生命事奉。
1 Chronicles Chapter 23: The Life of Serving in the Sanctuary
GK611 Morning Devotion
18/07/2024
The Morning Devotion Speaker: Ps Deborah Tan
Introduction:
Chapter 22 records that David prepared materials for the building of the sanctuary and instructed Solomon to build the sanctuary for God, and also instructed all the leaders of Israel to help his son Solomon. Today comes chapter 23, which focuses on the Levitical team that David set up to serve in the sanctuary. The Levites were very important to the sanctuary. All the planning for the administration and sacrificial system of the temple needed to be clearly arranged.
1. Establishing Solomon as King (v1)
David, in his old age, made Solomon king. A short verse can give us many thoughts. The first is David’s heart for God and his desire to serve Him with all his heart during his lifetime. If he could not build the sanctuary, he actively prepared the materials for it.
Secondly, David did not leave his valuable assets to Solomon to be the king’s property, but instructed his son that it was to be used for the building of the sanctuary. What parents want to pass on or leave to their children should be a heart that loves and fears God.
Thirdly, when we prepare and pave the way for the next generation, we should bring them along to participate in the process, so that they can experience God together.
2. Levitical numbers and genealogy (v2-23)
Verses 2-6 are a count of all the Levites. David gathered all the chiefs of Israel and the priestly Levites and counted the number of Levites above 30 years of age, a total of 38,000 men.
v7-23 lists the genealogies of the three great families of the Levites. v7-11 is the family of Gershon; v12-20 the family of Kohath. Moses and his family are specifically mentioned, as well as the children of Aaron, who were specifically chosen to serve as priests; to be responsible for the holiest service in the sanctuary, that is, to burn incense before the Lord. v21-24 describe the family of Merari.
3. A life service that is set apart (v 24-32)
(1) Everyone shall serve God (v24-27)
(2) The Request that is set apart (v28)
(3) The fear of God in godliness and justice (v29)
(4) Offering thanksgiving in the morning and in the evening (v30)
(5) Keeping the feasts according to God’s rhythm (v31-32)
Conclusion:
As God’s chosen Levites, we all have the responsibility to prosper God’s Church and to worship God by keeping ourselves holy and with spirit and in truth wherever we are, whether it is in our homes, communities, or workplaces. The prosperity of the whole nation and society is closely related to whether or not we serve God with holy lives in the workplace and at home. We shall live a life of fervent and fear God.
录音在线播发 | Online audio player
历代志上［第二十二章］ Book of 1 Chronicles 22
历代志上［第二十二章］
Book of 1 Chronicles 22
文章下载 ｜ Article Download
【神必预备】
17/07/2024
引言：
从经文当中，我们看到信实的神信守与大卫的约，而且祂也亲自预备建殿所需要的一切。
一、预备材料（V2-5）
大卫预备了许多材料，包括铁、铜和香柏木。这里的‘预备’原文是大卫之约中的‘坚定’，表达了人‘与神同工’的实际：一面是人‘预备’建殿，一面是神‘坚定’国度。
二、预备建造者（V6-16）
1.相信神应许（V9-10）
大卫对儿子所罗门宣告神的应许，用了多个‘必’，表明他对神应许的信心。神对大卫的计划是使他成为争战和得胜的君王，而对所罗门的计划是使他成为平安和荣耀的君王。
2.当刚强壮胆（V11-13）
大卫提醒所罗门，建殿的事有神参与，而且得到神同在、使他亨通的关键是顺服神的话，遵行耶和华的律法典章。大卫为所罗门祷告，求神赐他聪明智慧治理国家并且鼓励所罗门要‘刚强壮胆，不要惧怕，也不要惊惶’。
3.当起来办事（V14-16）
大卫辛苦预备了金子、银子、铜铁、木材、石头和能工巧匠。他也命令所罗门“起来办事，愿耶和华与你同在”。人的行动加上神的同在，事情就必成就。
三、预备帮助者（V17-19）
大卫动员全体百姓参与建造圣殿。建造圣殿不是大卫个人的事业，是神给全体百姓的任务，需要全民配搭建造。对今天的教会建造来说也应如此，不只是依赖个别人的热心，而是每个人都应当‘寻求耶和华’，‘起来建造’。
总结：
大卫为所罗门建殿预备了材料，传达了神的旨意，鼓励他刚强壮胆，并动员全体百姓参与。这些预备和动员不仅仅是物质上的，更是属灵上的，为的是荣耀神的名，传扬祂的恩典。今天，我们也应效法大卫，忠心事奉，预备自己和下一代，为神的国度努力建造。愿我们都能像大卫一样，刚强壮胆，相信神的应许，为神做大事。
1 Chronicles Chapter 22: God will prepare
GK611 Morning Devotion
17/07/2024
The Morning Devotion Speaker: Ps Stella Ling
Introduction:
From the scriptures, we see that the faithful God kept His covenant with David, and that He personally prepared everything needed for the building of the temple.
1. Preparing the materials (v2-5)
David prepared many materials, including iron, bronze and cedar wood. The original word ‘prepare’ here is ‘firm’ in the Davidic covenant, expressing the reality of man ‘working with God’: on the one hand, man ‘prepares building the tempale, and on the other side God ‘firming up’ the kingdom.
2. Preparing the builder (v6-16)
(2) Believing God’s promise (v9-10)
David’s declaration of God’s promises to his son Solomon uses multiple ‘shall’s’ to show his confidence in God’s promises. God’s plan for David was to make him a king of war and victory, while His plan for Solomon was to make him a king of peace and glory.
(2) Be strong and courageous (v11-13)
David reminded Solomon that God was involved in the building of the temple and that the key to God’s presence and prosperity was to obey God’s Word and to follow the statutes of the Lord. David prayed for Solomon, asking God to give him wisdom to rule the nation and encouraging Solomon to ‘be strong and of good courage; do not fear nor be dismayed’.
(3) Arise and begin working (v14-16)
David had labouriously prepared gold, silver, bronze, iron, wood, stone and skilled craftsmen. He also commanded Solomon to “arise and begin working, and the Lord be with you”. When human action is coupled with God’s presence, things will be accomplished.
3. Preparing helpers (v17-19)
David mobilised the entire people to participate in the building of the temple. The building of the temple was not David’s personal career, it was a task given by God to all the people, and it required the cooperation of all the people to build it. The same should be true for church building today, not just relying on the zeal of individuals, but everyone should ‘seek the Lord’ and ‘arise and build’.
Conclusion:
David prepared the materials for Solomon to build the temple, communicated God’s will, encouraged him to be strong and courageous, and mobilised all the people to participate. These preparations and mobilisations were not only material, but also spiritual, in order to glorify God’s name and spread His grace. Today, we should also follow David’s example of serving faithfully, preparing ourselves and the next generation, and striving to build for the kingdom of God. May we all be like David, strong and courageous, believing in God’s promises and doing great things for God.