His moment had arrived; it was time to lead. (Have you ever been there?) All eyes were on Solomon as his father commissioned him, “Consider now, for the Lord has chosen you to build a temple as a sanctuary” (1 Chronicles 28:10). It was an enormous responsibility, so before releasing him to his work, David offered three pieces of valuable advice to his “young and inexperienced” son. Let’s eavesdrop and learn.
“Be strong and courageous, and do the work.” Are you called to lead, but paralyzed in fear? David says we have a decision to make: choose strength. Every morning, put on courage, and go.
“Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you…” Have you lost your courage somewhere along the way? David reminds us where it is found: in trust in God. Remember that He who holds all power is faithful; He always loves you and never leaves you.
People are “ready for the work … skilled in [their] craft … will help you … will obey your every command.” Are you overwhelmed in self-reliance? Then esteem with David nobility of labor: people are capable of work and wanting to excel. Make their day by uniting all under one vision, equipping doers with what they need, and then honoring their skill with your trust. Give people the gift of going home fulfilled. Good leaders do this.
Solomon has long been regarded as the wisest man who ever lived. Must have listened to the old man!
Father, I confess that fear is constantly nipping at my faith. Fill me with your Spirit, that I would live today in strength, courage, trust and humility. I ask this as your child in Christ. Amen.
Christ in me is wisdom.
See David’s leadership advice in 1 Chronicles 28:19-21.
So, what do we do? Certainly finger-pointing, hand-wringing and towel-throwing get us nowhere. I think a friend of mine, Michael Young, has an answer. Senior pastor of a largely African-American congregation, Michael convenes open town-hall meetings at his church, inviting community leaders with different vantage points—clergy, police, elected officials, business people—to share their thoughts and to listen to the collective hearts and voices of all gathered there. The purpose is not to assert one opinion over others, but to meet deeper needs: of hearing and being heard, of understanding and being understood, of airing perceptions and addressing misperceptions, of looking up from that which divides us and embracing the aspirations we all share in common—the desires of the soul only the Son of God can meet.
Paul Nordman—Author 