Wealthy Perspective

Wealth and honor come from you alone, for you rule over everything. Power and might are in your hand, and at your discretion, people are made great and given strength. “O our God, we thank you and praise your glorious name! But who am I, and who are my people, that we could give anything to you? Everything we have has come from you, and we give you only what you first gave us! We are here for only a moment, visitors and strangers in the land as our ancestors were before us. Our days on earth are like a passing shadow, gone so soon without a trace.

1 Chronicles 29:12-15

At this very moment in the history, Israel is arguably on the precipice of the height of their existence. They are dwelling in the promised land surrounded by success in every area of their lives. King David, a man after God’s own heart, has led them admirably up to this very point. After a few parenting miscues, David is now transitioning the Kingdom to his son Solomon. Solomon is the king God designated would build the temple, the place of God among His people. Great leadership and wealth are overflowing.

This is the beautiful response of King David, humble words offered to God. These words give us an idea of how we ought to respond to God when blessed with abundance. First, he recognizes that it all comes from God. How easy it is to steal credit from God in moments like these. David played a significant role, but it was God behind it all. Next, David names his place before God. He admits that even the very gifts they are preparing for the temple are from God. David has nothing of his own to give. Lastly, David professes the big picture. His time is limited while the True King has no limit. You can hear the great humility coming from the wealthy leader of God’s people.

DO THIS TODAY: Humbly recognize the abundance of your wealth and position before God. Give praise!