The Aim of Our Service

But the word of the Lord came to me, saying, "You have shed much blood and have waged great wars. You shall not build a house to My name, because you have shed so much blood before Me on the earth." - 1 Chronicles 22:8

King David longed with all of his heart to build a temple to house the ark of the covenant, a permanent home to picture the establishment of God's people in the Promised Land. God, however, would not allow David to build the temple, instead encouraging him to gather the materials in order that his heir might accomplish the project. God told David that he could not build because he had shed too much blood.

This seems a bit reminiscent of Paul's words concerning ministry roles ("I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase."). David could not build the temple, but he could prepare for the work of its building. Many times Paul began the establishment of a church, but others came along to make more disciples and see it firmly grounded in the faith.

We must all accept our place in God's service, be it preparation or actual completion. Either way, God must always get the glory for that which surely belongs to Him.

Expect great things from God. Attempt great things for God. - William Carey