David said to his son Solomon: “Be strong and brave! Do it! Don’t be afraid and don’t panic! For the LORD God, my God, is with you. He will not leave you or abandon you before all the work for the service of the LORD’s temple is finished. (I Chronicles 28:20, NET)

There usually comes a time in our lives when we appreciate parental advice much more than as a child or teenager. It’s amazing how the older we get, the smarter our parents become. The words above are from King David to his son Solomon. When we feel overwhelmed by the size of the task before us, David’s advice still applies today.

To provide a little background, one of David’s greatest desires was to build a permanent place of worship for the Lord. Since the Israelites’ time in the wilderness, their place of worship had been a tabernacle (tent), a portable structure that could be moved as they moved. David wanted to construct a permanent place to honor God. But God said no (verse 3) because of the wars David had fought and the blood he had shed. Instead, Solomon, his son, would build the house of God. As a young man, possibly in his twenties, it was a daunting responsibility. But he listened to his father’s advice on how to succeed: partner with God.

When faced with what seems like an overwhelming task, it is reassuring to know that we don’t have to do it alone. Not only do we have the Lord’s help, but He also sends others to work alongside us. Solomon had many skilled helpers to complete the task.

“Here are the divisions of the priests and Levites who will perform all the service of God’s temple. All the willing and skilled men are ready to assist you in all the work and perform their service. The officials and all the people are ready to follow your instructions.” (I Chronicles 28:21, NET)

You may be facing some major tasks in your life and wonder how you will ever succeed. God’s Word provides the answer.

The first step is found in Proverbs 16:3 (NET). “Commit your works to the LORD, and your plans will be established.” Hand it over to God and allow Him to guide your steps. He may open your eyes to new possibilities or allow you to cross paths with someone with the exact knowledge needed. God has amazing ways of helping us find the right direction.

Next, look fear in the eye and confidently declare, “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?” (Hebrews 13:6, ESV). Fear can be paralyzing, but never allow it to take hold. As you move forward in the power of God’s Spirit, you will triumph.

Finally, give it everything you’ve got. “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men” (Colossians 3:23).

Just as David promised Solomon, God never abandoned him during the seven years of construction. The same is true for us as well. No matter how difficult the task before us may seem, “For with God nothing shall be impossible” (Luke 1:37).

        Maintaining integrity in an ungodly world may be daunting, but God is our help.

        Teaching a Bible study may be daunting, but God is our help.

        Single parenting may be daunting, but God is our help.

        Caring for an elderly or disabled loved one may be daunting, but God is our help.

        Answering God’s call to a new area of ministry may be daunting, but God is our help.

Don’t panic. Never give up. God is your helper.

Lord, thank You for the assurance that You are my help and the source of my strength in whatever circumstances I face. If You place a calling on my life, You will enable me to fulfill that calling. If my faith is challenged by the size of the task, I need not fear because You are with me. Nothing is impossible with You at my side.

 

Author

Mary enjoys traveling, meeting new people, and spending time with old friends. Although directionally challenged, she would rather take the back roads with their discoveries than the boredom of the interstate.

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