A Temple Costs How Much….The Joys of Giving - 1 Chronicles 29
Background: Chronicles is like the story of David’s life – The good bits. In Chapter 29, we see one of David’s last acts and prayers before Israel. Then he died.
History: In previous chapters, we learn that David was not to build God’s temple – A man of war/blood – Solomon got the job. Up until now, the ark and worship happened in the tabernacle. Temples cost a lot to build. We arrive at Chapter 29.
How much!!
David spoke to the assembly – nice opening, Dad – Young and inexperienced – Solomon.
David gave from his own wealth: 3000 talents of gold (talent = 34kg. 3000 x 34kg = 102 000kg. 1kg of gold = $80 000.00 102 000 x $80 000 = $8.16 billion
Verse 5. David threw out the challenge. *Leaders have to be an example.
Verse 6. The leaders gave willingly – providing for the construction of God’s House.
It’s about the heart – David’s prayer
This chapter is much more than how much coin was given for the temple. It’s about the heart, or some might say our attitude towards God and his work, or even what he has revealed to you to do.
Let’s look at some Godly principles from the chapter about giving. These principles are for all things that God has given to us: finances, gifts, talents and abilities and time.
We are to give:-
1. Thankfully - verse 13
Thankful for all he has given us – 1 Corinthians 9:7
2. Humbly - verse 14
Who I am. I…… Remember David gave 8 billion dollars.
Not proud - eg. the poor woman giving in Mark 12.
3. Generously – verse 16
“All this abundance” – Everything we have comes from God.
We are generous at C.B.C.
“Some people are generous with a little and some are tight with a lot.”
Everything comes from the loving, gracious, merciful Hand of God.
4. Willingly – verse 17
“Freely and joyously”
Not under pressure or out of obligation.
Verse 9 “The people rejoiced because they had given willingly.
God loves a cheerful giver.
5. With complete devotion – verse 20
Worship team, preaching, sound & tech, teachers, mowing, etc.
Folks, we are just about to leap into 2022; what’s done is done in 2021.
I pray that as a church and individuals, we would revisit our giving to the Lord’s work in this coming year. The giving of our hearts first, then the giving of our time, talents and giftings, finances.
Are we (am I) willing to pray the prayer, “Lord, what would you have me to do this coming year? Show me, reveal to me your plan and give me your strength to carry it out.”