By Jerry Borton

Of course David would build God’s temple, right? He had the perfect resume. 

David overcame humble beginnings, starting out as a shepherd. He was considered the least in his family; in fact when the prophet Samuel came to his house to anoint the new king, at first David wasn’t even invited to the meeting. He went on to become a national war hero, defeating Goliath with just one stone shot from a sling. The people of Israel celebrated his war exploits singing, ”Saul has slain his thousands, David his ten thousands” (1 Samuel 18:7). In addition, he was a talented musician and poet. 

All this made David a most popular king. Of course he would build God’s temple—it was the right thing to do after all God had done for him. However, there’s no mention that David or the prophet Nathan prayed about this grand idea. 

We may have a great dream. Something we have a passion for that meets a real need. We may have the experience, training, talent, and connections to pull it off. It seems to be the right thing to do after all God has done for us. That doesn’t mean that God signs off on our plans. 

God sent Nathan back to David to announce that David’s son would build the temple. David could have become indignant, angry, bitter, or thrown himself a pity party. Instead Scripture tells us that he prepared Solomon for the task ahead, offering training in the ways of God and providing much of the material for the temple. David may have even introduced Solomon to some key people who would help in the preparation and construction of the temple. 

You may have a great dream, but you may not be the right person to complete it. Are you willing to relinquish your dream to God’s plan? Who around you shares that dream? How can you speak into their lives to prepare them to move the dream forward? How can you resource their efforts? What people can you connect together who may become partners in the fulfillment of that dream? 

Jerry Borton lives in Souderton, Pennsylvania, with his wife, Joan. He serves as area director for Joni and Friends Greater Philadelphia.