Calendardate: May 17
Day of the Year: 137
Timeline. Map. Go to today’s Bible reading (use your browser arrow to return): 1Chronicles 27:1–29:22; Psalm 133
Passing the Torch
At the appropriate time, parents, coaches, ministers, and others who have leadership roles should pass the torch to the next generation. The success or failure to entrust them with responsibilities is essential for the future health and hope of a family or organization.
If we Christians are careful in handing over responsibilities, we can help promote and sustain God’s blessings and prosperity. How do we do this? Lessons from the life of King David will help us.
In our last Bible study, King David brought the fractured nation of Israel together by challenging them to build a magnificent temple. It was designed worthy of their glorious and majestic Almighty God. David wouldn’t live to see the project through, however, so he handed over the task to Solomon. How did he do it?
Making a Safe Transition
Although the land was at peace, Israel had enemies ready to devour her. During a transition of leadership, other nations might perceive Israel as weak. In response, David had a top-notch military force prepared to take action if necessary.
Like David, we show foresight when we defend our families or organizations from others who might cause harm. This is especially helpful during times of transition.
Sharing a Plan
In today's Bible reading, David shares God’s general plan with the leaders and officials of Israel. He gives them a heads up to what’s coming, i.e., the building of the temple. They’ve already seen him make preparations, so they’re not shocked by the announcement. Now, David wants the leaders to come on board with the project and help his young son.
Pushing for a Commitment
Before they oversee the project, David wants the leaders of Israel to commit themselves in wholehearted obedience to the LORD. David says,
“So now I charge you in the sight of all Israel and of the assembly of the LORD, and in the hearing of our God: Be careful to follow all the commands of the LORD your God, that you may possess this good land and pass it on as an inheritance to your descendants forever” (1Chronicles 28:8, NIV).Do we have a personal relationship with God? (more...) Do we care about what happens to our descendants or our organization when we leave? If so, we must set the example and urge the next generation to be faithful and committed. They (and we) share some personal responsibility in the success or failure of a venture.
In baseball, we know the coach can prepare the team, teaching them all the fundamentals, and giving them a strategy for winning. However, it’s up to the players to execute the game plan. They (and we) must be faithful to the task and loyal to win.
Laying out the Details
David shares detailed plans with Solomon, encourages him to follow God with all his heart, and to do the work assigned to him. Clear job assignments are a must. Leaders need to understand the plans and how they’ll operate.They need to know this so that they can communicate it to others as needed.Enabling Others
The aging king enables Solomon to have the resources (materials and people) needed to complete the task. If we’re going to ask someone else to complete a project we’re starting, we need to enable them to do it. David prepares massive amounts of cedar, gold, silver, and fine materials to use in the temple's construction.
Inspiring People
David shows his devotion to God and his support for the work by investing in it from his resources. His investment inspires other leaders to do the same. Then David praises the LORD. He also praises the people for the willingness they show in giving toward the work.
Do we inspire others by our commitments? Do we affirm the right choices people make? If we do, it’ll encourage them to continue in righteousness.
Giving Thanks, Prayer, and Praise
King David gives thanks to the LORD for his blessings, and he prays for the new leader, Solomon.
Afterward, he tells the people to join him in giving praise to God. Together they give praise and offer many sacrifices to him. Together they eat and drink with joy, and together they acknowledge Solomon as king by anointing him before the LORD (1Chronicles 29:22). Finally, the nation is one in heart and purpose. David desires they remain unified (Psalm 133).
A careful passing of the torch is likely to bring support, instead of division, and the blessing of the LORD.
The king carefully passes the responsibilities to Solomon; he has all the support he needs. In tomorrow’s lesson, we’ll see how another son of David, Adonijah, tries to subvert David’s plans.
Focus Verse
1Chronicles 29:12 (NIV) “Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all.”
Discussion
Why do we need to pass on the torch to the next generation, and do it carefully?
How can we effectively hand responsibilities over to others?
Write a private prayer response to today’s Bible study:
Please send your comments to me, Rod (the author)
Looking Ahead: The reign of KingDavid finishes, and his life ends well. How do we end our career, ministry, or life well? Find out in our next lesson.
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