The book of 1 Chronicles concludes with David’s last acts as king. Chapter 29 started with King David stating his desire to build the house for the Lord, and is therefore providing for the house of the Lord as far as he is able. He also encouraged the people to work together under Solomon’s direction to build the temple. The chapter ended with Solomon sitting on the throne of the Lord as king, in place of David, his father, bringing us into 2 Chronicles.

As one of David’s final acts, he praised and blessed God because He is the source of all blessings (verses 10-12). In this doxology, David blessed God to show gratitude for God’s bountiful provision, which enabled the generous giving to the building of the temple. David also expressed a collective thanksgiving to God (verse 13), confessing God’s graciousness and goodness, extolling God as the source of all gifts and gracious help (verses 13-16). David’s blessing closes with a supplication that his people will always keep their hearts loyal to God, and that his son, Solomon, may also be wholeheartedly devoted, in obedience, to the law of God (verses 17-19), in line with that of Deuteronomy 17. And finally, the whole assembly blessed the Lord, acknowledging that the God of Abraham, Isaac, Israel, David, Solomon, are their God as well.

Are we aware of God’s presence and the gifts from God like David did? Just as David invited the assembly to bless the Lord, we, too, are being invited to declare the God of Abraham, Isaac, Israel, David, Solomon, as our God. He who brought them through all difficulties and grant them good gifts is Himself providing and protecting us.

If we recognise that all blessings and provision come from God Himself, then what is our posture when it comes to giving back to God? Is it freely and willingly without any compulsion? Is it with our whole heart? The truth is, God does not need us to give back to Him what He has given us. Instead, what He wants in our act of giving is the state of our hearts, and the posture we take in giving to Him. How we give, and why we give what we give (intent) is of importance. May we search our hearts with our giving, and as we recognise God as the giver of all, may we bless His name and worship Him.

Prayer : Dear God, thank you, for you are the giver of all. Thank you for every blessing and provision, even during my challenging times, for You show Yourself as the God who loves, provides, and protects. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.