Promptings: Transitions
Scripture Reading — 1 Chronicles 28:9-21
“My son … acknowledge the God of your father … If you seek him, he will be found by you …”
1 Chronicles 28:9
Imagine the weight of responsibility Solomon felt that day. When his aging father, David, placed the scepter of the empire into Solomon’s young and inexperienced hands, it weighed a ton. Then, when David also handed Solomon the plans and raw materials for the most glorious temple in the history of the nation, telling him that God had chosen him to build it, that was another ton.
No wonder David called his son to seek God (and then added that if he did not, the consequences would be disastrous). The task before Solomon was far beyond any training or skill he had acquired.
Later we learn that Solomon took his father’s advice and called on the Lord, gathering all the leaders of the people at the tabernacle (the place of worship) to inquire of the Lord (see 2 Chron. 1:1–12). And there, in the quiet of the night, God appeared to Solomon and invited him to ask for whatever he thought he needed as the new king. With a humble heart Solomon asked not for wealth, honor, or military might. He simply asked for wisdom and knowledge to lead his people for the Lord. And God gave him not only wisdom but also all these other things as well.
Are you facing a transition in your life? If so, look at it as an opportunity to seek God in a fresh way. And, like Solomon, may you find him, finding you.
Father, there is so much change in our world and in our own lives. As we try to cope, move us to seek your wisdom. Thank you for your promise to give it. In Jesus’ name, Amen
About the author — Kenneth D. Koeman
Rev. Ken Koeman is a pastor at Bellevue, Washington, Christian Reformed Church. He has written Today devotions in past years and has also authored numerous articles for The Banner, the magazine of the Christian Reformed Church. Ken and his wife, Kay, live in Bellevue and have two children and five grandchildren.
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