Whilst 1 Chronicles looks like a history of Judah, the southern kingdom, the information presented, seems to be at odds with the earlier presentation of 2 Samuel. In light of this 1 Chronicles should be read as a theological, rather than a historical, rewriting of the earlier history, designed to demonstrate the continuity of David and Solomon’s united monarchy with the struggling post exile community to which the book was addressed.
Although it was the great king Solomon whom God appointed to build the Holy Temple of the Lord, it was David who had the vision to assemble a House for God. David gave generously toward this project, and the hearts of the people were moved to give freely of their goods for this great undertaking. In the midst of much rejoicing and great joy, David made all the necessary preparations for the building of the House of the Lord.
And so it was that together with the children of Israel, David dedicated the silver and gold in preparation for this great undertaking. He collected together all the fine materials that the people had been gathering freely and had donated happily, for the construction of the Temple of God.
When all the preparations had been made, the king blessed the Lord and led the congregation of Israel in a wonderful prayer of blessing, thanksgiving, and jubilant praise, which began, "Blessed are You, O Lord God of Israel our Father, forever and ever." For the first time in Scripture, we see the Lord being referred to as 'Father' by the people of God.
David's prayerful song of thanksgiving and praise to the Lord continued in joyous enthusiasm, as he proclaimed with great jubilation, "Yours, O Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendour, for everything in heaven and earth is Yours. Yours, O Lord, is the kingdom. You are exalted as Head over all." 1 Chronicles 29:11
In a world of turmoil and conflict may we too voice such a prayer that in spite of all the chaos, the Lord alone is worthy of our devotion.
Heavenly Father, we worship and praise You, for the greatness, power, splendour, glory, and majesty are Yours alone. May You be greatly honoured, for You are Head over all things and Judge of all humankind. Thank You for all You have done to redeem our lives, and for bringing us into Your everlasting kingdom. May we never become too familiar with Who it was that gave his all on the cross for love of us. In Jesus’ name I pray, AMEN.
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