1 Chronicles 28: A Legacy of Humble Service

For more context before you begin studying, read this introduction to the book of 1 Chronicles.

Our church is full of plaques memorializing those who gave the stained glass windows, the organ, the furnishings in the small chapel, the ceiling lights. The names go largely unnoticed, but what would the building be like without those things? People several generations back started the Sunday school, began the choir, collected the first missions offering. Today we carry on the work they started. As David passes his dreams for the temple on to Solomon—despite his disappointment at not being about to build it himself—he too leaves a legacy for those to come.

Warming Up to God

How much of your work for the Lord was actually started by a previous generation? Consider the people who came before you to lay the foundation, and thank God for them.

Read 1 Chronicles 28

Discovering the Word

• David was admitting to the officials that the Lord had denied him the privilege of building the temple in favor of his son Solomon. What do his actions throughout this passage tell you about how he's handling this news?
• How did David encourage Solomon to act (vv. 9-10)?
• How did David provide for Solomon to carry out the building of the temple (vv. 11-19)?
• How did David conclude his address (vv. 20-21)?
• What do you learn about David's character from his reaction to this disappointment?

Applying the Word

• When are you likely to pout about God's plans for you? (For example, when God gives someone else a job you'd like to have.)
• How can your attitude be helped by getting the "long view" of God's plans in the world?
• In what ways would you like to handle disappointment more like David does?

Responding in Prayer

If you are aware of being overpossessive about some aspect of your life or ministry, confess your attitude to the Lord. Ask him to teach you humility and give you energy to serve him in the places he's called you to.