1 Chronicles 29:1-30

This is the account of the final stage in the greatest work of David's life, namely, his preparation for building the Temple. The king had a treasure of his own, over and above what he had gathered for the house of God.

Because of his affection for the work of God, this treasure also he dedicated thereto. This is illuminative, showing the true method of giving. It is when "my affection" is set on the work of "my God" that "my treasure" is at His Disposal. And yet, again, it is when such is the case that any appeal I make to others is likely to be productive of results. Heart-inspired generosity is the most contagious grace. Notice very carefully how this section ends. "Then the people rejoiced, for they had offered willingly, because with a perfect heart they offered willingly to the Lord." To have real delight in the work of God one must give to it. The real pleasure of a great work is consecrated co-operation.

The king now stood amidst his people and exercised a priestly function. He voiced his own and the people's joy in a psalm of great beauty. First, it ascribes all inherent excellencies to Jehovah, and recognizes His throne and Kingdom. Then it recognizes that all the riches and honor which men possess are from Him. Thus it acknowledges the fitness of their giving their best to Him, and at the same time confesses that their very gifts have &st been received from Him. This thought is then elaborated in a confession of personal poverty and unworthiness, together with a great outpouring of gladness that of His gifts they had given to Him. The praise merges into a prayer that the state of mind in which they have given may be kept in their remembrance, and for Solomon that he may be kept with perfect heart to accomplish the great work.

In connection with this glad and solemn season of worship and sacrifice Solomon was crowned the second time. Finally, the chronicler declares that David "died in a good old age, full of days, riches, and honour." In very truth it had been a great reign. Through varied experiences the king had come at last to the highest that was in him, and, as Paul declared, "David, after he had in his own generation served the counsel of God, fell on sleep" John 13:36).