I Had Made Preparations… But God Said

(1 Chronicles 28:2-3 HCSB) 2 Then King David rose to his feet and said, “Listen to me, my brothers and my people. It was in my heart to build a house as a resting place for the ark of the LORD’s covenant and as a footstool for our God. I had made preparations to build, 3 but God said to me, ‘You are not to build a house for My name because you are a man of war and have shed blood.’

This passage of Scripture is proof that, as God’s people, we are to adjust our sails to the winds of His voice. For too long, we have presumed God’s blessings upon our own fleshly desires. I say fleshly, because no matter how spiritual, or good, or righteous our intentions seem, they are selfishly motivated unless they originate from God’s heart.

Notice David’s words…

• It was in my heart…
• I had made preparations…
• But God said, “You are not to build…”

David possessed passion for the project, and had made proper preparations for its completion; he had two vital ingredients, but he lacked the most important component. God’s approval.

We don’t always receive God’s approval to do the things we want to do–even when it appears that it would bring Him glory. Sometimes we don’t really know God’s reasons for withholding His approval; we just have to trust that He has a better plan.

In this instance, God explained to David that he would not be allowed to build the house of God because he had been a man of war and bloodshed. The interesting thing is that David was ok with it. He didn’t seem to be upset at all. David’s contribution to the kingdom of Israel, and ultimately, the Kingdom of God was well-known and stood on its own merits. Nothing could detract from the significance of His contribution.

Rather than become and bitter, David decided to accept and officially bless God’s plan to use Solomon to build the house of God. “As for you, Solomon my son, know the God of your father, and serve Him with a whole heart and a willing mind, for the LORD searches every heart and understands the intention of every thought. If you seek Him, He will be found by you, but if you forsake Him, He will reject you forever. 10 Realize now that the LORD has chosen you to build a house for the sanctuary. Be strong, and do it.”  (1 Chronicles 28:2-3, 9-10 HCSB)

And, of course, history records that Solomon did just that.

It’s not sinful to have passion. Neither is it wrong to make plans to do significant things for God. Just make sure you have the most important thing–God’s approval! Only then will you have His provision!

PRAYER: Father, My heart is full of dreams and aspirations that I believe will bring glory to Your name. Help me to listen carefully to Your voice, and to move forward only when You have placed Your approval upon the plan. I trust You to know what’s best! Amen.