REFLECTION
Pray First
By Elaine Pierce
Nathan the prophet messed up, didn't he? King David decided he wanted to build God a house befitting the King of the Universe. Without consulting God, Nathan agreed:
"Whatever you have in mind, go ahead and do it, for the Lord is with you." (v. 3.)
On the face of it, this sounds like good advice. After all, David has conquered Israel's enemies and the nation is at peace for the moment. David is energetic and ambitious and looking for another project. And honoring God with a suitable home will certainly please Him.
Has David prayed about this? Has Nathan? Has God asked for a home? The short answer to all of these questions is no. It is easy to assume that 'good' projects are always ordained by God. Certainly he wants what we think he wants! But after the Lord came to Nathan the very night that David announced his plans, Nathan recognized that he was wrong to assume that God would bless these plans. [Be sure to read the rest of the chapter to see David's response to God's call. Yes, David sinned, but he was a man after God's own heart (I Samuel 16:7).]
Serving communion.....lectoring....ushering....preaching....caring for those in need. These are all important tasks and ones that bring honor and glory to God and service to our fellow Christians. God has called all of us to works of service - but let's remember that what he wants more than all of those things is that our hearts are wholly his. Yes, doing God's work is important. But most important is worshiping Him in spirit and in truth.
God said 'no' to David, but he also told him that his legacy would live on:
"Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me; your throne will be established forever. " (v. 16).
PRAYER
Lord, so often I rush headlong and forget to ask you to guide me. Help me today and each day to spend time with you, to enjoy your presence, and to worship you. Help me to lean on you and not my own understanding. In all my ways I acknowledge you, and you will direct my paths. Amen.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
ELAINE PIERCE
It is a delight and joy to write Sunday's UALC Blog post. I have been a UALC member for 20+ years and I value our community of believers. I draw strength from God's Word, and it is my hope that you join me in seeking to grow closer to Him as we read, study, and pray together. I've been married to Gene for 47 years, and we have four grown children and nine grandchildren. It is an exciting time to be alive, and I count it all joy to serve Him, even in the midst of challenges. To God be the glory, for the great things he is doing!
ความคิดเห็น