sinfulness – Page 2 – Be Still…

1 Chronicles 28:1-21 – David’s Instructions

Read 1 Chronicles 28:1-21

David was certainly displaying transparent leadership at this moment. He made sure everyone was there for his big speech. The “LORD’s assembly” it was called. Much of what David said was for Solomon’s benefit. As the next king, Solomon was charged by God with building the temple David had only dreamed of. By being transparent with Solomon and the rest of the leaders, David was also setting up accountability for Solomon’s reign. By having the kingdom’s leaders present, they would be informed and ready for what would happen next. Brilliant!

Why is being transparent a good idea for those in leadership? Such actions alleviate any question about what is going to happen and who does what. This transparency is a great example of “direct leadership” when clear instructions are given. People respond when being led in a direct manner.

1 Chronicles 21:18-30 – Build an Altar

Read 1 Chronicles 21:18-30

In this reading, we learn more about Araunah the Jebusite and the angel of death that was standing by his threshing floor. You may recall in our last reading how at the last minute the Lord called off the angel’s mission of destroying Jerusalem. But the angel remained ready, with his sword drawn, bringing fear to David and Araunah.

For some reason, the angel gave David’s seer, Gad the message to build an altar right there on Araunah’s threshing floor. David was very quick to be obedient. It appears Araunah was also anxious to give the king whatever he asked for. David didn’t want to take advantage of Araunah’s generosity, so payment was made.

1 Chronicles 21:1-17 – Satan is Sly

Read 1 Chronicles 21:1-17

Many different characters in today’s reading were affected by Satan’s sly move to divert David’s attention away from God’s will. David was tempted and later repented. Joab was troubled because he knew what he was doing was wrong. Gad brought God’s message of punishment. And thousands of people lost their lives in the plague.

Satan was successful despite David being devoted to God. David’s lapse in judgment was Satan’s opening to bring even more destruction and despair. No wonder we see God’s fury unleashed.

1 Chronicles 5:1-26 – God’s People Aren’t Perfect

Read 1 Chronicles 5:1-26

Is it helpful to recognize the flaws in God’s people? Perhaps it makes us feel better when we fall short. This reading is more than genealogies because we see examples of how God deals with those who fall into the temptation of sin. For Reuben, he lost his birthright. The tribes who bowed down to other gods were taken away into captivity.

We were also given insight into ways God rewards those who trust him. While I am not a fan of war, it is always refreshing to see leaders trusting God in those times. What sorts of conflicts are going on in your life that God can help you with?

Ecclesiastes 12:8-14 – Final Thoughts

Read Ecclesiastes 12:8-14

What an image describing how wise words inspire us! Neither a cattle prod nor a nail-studded stick sound like a pleasant way to direct our path. Yet sometimes that’s just what we need – like a “kick in the pants!” Understanding right from wrong can often be an eye-opening experience.

Encountering the Teacher’s reflections throughout the book of Ecclesiastes has been helpful. I appreciate his conclusions and parting thoughts in this final passage. “Fear God and obey his commands, for this is everyone’s duty.” If more people in this world knew what their “duty” was, families, neighborhoods, and even churches would be much happier. Don’t you agree?