1 Chronicles 28:20 – “David also said to Solomon his son, ‘Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you until all the work for the service of the temple of the Lord is finished.'”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, David is encouraging his son Solomon to be strong and courageous as he takes on the responsibility of building the temple. David knows that the task ahead is enormous, but he reminds Solomon that God is with him and that God will guide him to complete the work. The words “do not be afraid or discouraged” show that David understands the challenges Solomon might face, but he assures Solomon of God’s faithful presence. David had experienced God’s guidance throughout his own life, and he now passes on this confidence to his son. This verse emphasizes that God’s presence and strength will help Solomon carry out the work, and that God will not abandon him in the process.
Historical Context
David had wanted to build the temple himself, but God told him that this task would be given to Solomon (1 Chronicles 22:6-10). The temple would be the permanent dwelling place for the Ark of the Covenant, symbolizing God’s presence with Israel. David spent years preparing for the construction by gathering materials and providing detailed plans. Now, as David neared the end of his life, he passed on the responsibility of overseeing the temple’s construction to Solomon. This was a monumental task, not just physically but spiritually, as the temple was the center of Israel’s worship. David’s encouragement to Solomon echoes God’s words to Joshua when he took over from Moses (Joshua 1:9), reminding Solomon that God’s presence would be with him as he completed the work.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the importance of relying on God’s strength when facing difficult tasks. Solomon was called to build the temple, but the real power behind the project would be God’s presence and guidance. David’s words reflect the biblical truth that God equips and strengthens His people for the tasks He gives them. Theologically, this verse speaks to the faithfulness of God—He does not leave His people to figure things out on their own. God’s promise to never fail or forsake Solomon echoes His covenantal faithfulness, reminding us that when God calls us to do something, He will provide the strength and resources needed to see it through.
Literary Analysis
The verse is structured as an exhortation, with David’s words providing both encouragement and instruction. The repetition of phrases like “be strong and courageous” and “do not be afraid or discouraged” serves to reinforce the importance of trusting God in the face of challenges. The phrase “the Lord God, my God” personalizes the relationship between David and God, showing that David is passing on his own experience of God’s faithfulness to his son. The verse also creates a clear connection between Solomon’s task and God’s presence, emphasizing that the success of the temple project depends not on human ability, but on divine guidance.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Joshua 1:9: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go,” showing a similar command given to Joshua as he took on leadership after Moses.
- Deuteronomy 31:6: Moses gives similar encouragement to the people of Israel, reminding them of God’s presence as they prepare to enter the Promised Land.
- Isaiah 41:10: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand,” reinforcing the theme of God’s sustaining power in difficult tasks.
- Hebrews 13:5: “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you,” echoing the assurance of God’s continual presence with His people.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse serves as a powerful reminder that we don’t have to face challenges alone. Whether in ministry, personal life, or any calling from God, we can trust that He is with us and will provide the strength we need to accomplish His purposes. The command to “be strong and courageous” is not just about physical strength, but about trusting God in the midst of difficulty. When we face fear or discouragement, we can take comfort in knowing that God is faithful and will not abandon us. Just as God was with Solomon as he built the temple, He is with us in whatever He calls us to do.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse shows God’s love by emphasizing His presence with His people. God didn’t give Solomon a monumental task and then leave him to figure it out on his own. Instead, He promised to be with Solomon every step of the way, providing strength and guidance. This reflects God’s loving nature—He is always with His people, supporting and helping them through the challenges they face. God’s promise not to “fail or forsake” Solomon shows His deep commitment to His people, assuring them that His love is constant and dependable.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse connects to Jesus Christ in that Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promise to be with His people. Jesus’ name “Immanuel” means “God with us” (Matthew 1:23), and through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus made it possible for us to experience God’s presence in a personal and permanent way. Just as God promised to be with Solomon in building the temple, Jesus promises to be with His followers as they carry out the Great Commission (Matthew 28:20). In Christ, we have the assurance that God is always with us, empowering us to do the work He calls us to do.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse encourage you to trust God in the face of difficult tasks or challenges in your life?
- In what areas of your life do you need to be “strong and courageous,” trusting in God’s presence and guidance?
- How can David’s encouragement to Solomon inspire you to encourage others in their walk with God?
- How does the promise of God’s presence in this verse remind you of the role of Jesus as “God with us”?
- What steps can you take to overcome fear and discouragement, knowing that God will not fail or forsake you?