I think about the daunting task Solomon had in front of him. His father David was revered as the greatest king in the history of Israel. Obviously, he was only the second king in the history of Israel. Nonetheless, Solomon had huge shoes to fill. How was he supposed to accomplish the task of leading this great people and building the house of God? His father David gave him a simple, yet profound command.
1 Chronicles 28:9-10 'And you, Solomon my son, know the God of your father and serve him with a whole heart and with a willing mind, for the Lord searches all hearts and understands every plan and thought. If you seek him, he will be found by you, but if you forsake him, he will cast you off forever. Be careful now, for the Lord has chosen you to build a house for the sanctuary; be strong and do it.'
First, David commanded Solomon to know the Lord. Intimacy with God was the key to David's success and would be the key to Solomon's if he followed through with it.
Second, David commanded Solomon to serve the Lord with a whole heart and a willing mind. Solomon needed one focus in life, wholehearted devotion to the Lord.
Thirdly, David commanded Solomon to be careful, strong, and do it. This sounds like a simple command, however with all the demands on a king's time and energy it would be difficult for Solomon to focus on one thing. Despite this fact David called Solomon to fix his attention carefully on the task the Lord called him to do.
I look at my life, what I see as daunting sometimes, and I smile. My responsibilities are so small compared to Solomon's. I am called to faithfulness to the Lord, to take care of my family, and to make disciples. And although this is very simple compared to a world leader, it does require focus and commitment.
What about you? What does your life require? I know one thing about you. You are called to know the Lord, to serve the Lord, and be careful to do his will. May you do just that.
Taken from reading 1 Chronicles 25-29
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