Raising Monuments

My father David had it in his heart to build a temple for the Name of YHWH, the God of Israel. But YHWH said to my father David, “You did well to have it in your heart to build a temple for my Name. Nevertheless, you are not the one to build the temple, but your son, your own flesh and blood—he is the one who will build the temple for my Name.” – 1 Kings 8:17-19

King David desired to build a temple for YHWH, but God passed the responsibility on to his son Solomon instead. David's task was then altered to that of collecting all the materials to accomplish the task, which he obediently and sufficiently completed, without hesitation.

We each have an innate and very human desire to accomplish something significant in our lifetime. This was placed in us by our Creator. It may look different in each person and it can often be expressed in unhealthy ways, but it is there. Of course, as Christ-followers, we should be seeking significant ways to glorify the Lord through our efforts. The idea is not to build a name for ourselves, but rather to draw people to the Name above all others, Jesus.

In those places where God has privileged me to serve, my desire has primarily been to work with others to establish a healthy, vibrant church and by God's grace, we have often seen the Lord build His church according to His purpose. Yet, the task has never been completed, nor will it ever be. We all (myself and those with whom I served) had a “part” to play, to build or assemble, but it was always God’s “project.”

Perhaps in your ministry, be it paid or not, God desires that you "assemble the materials" for another who will come and finish the work. Let us remember that some plant, others water, but it is always God who gives the increase. The Lord is not interested in us raising up monuments to our name, only His.

God has never ceased to be the one true aim of all right human aspirations. – Alexandre Vinet