March 30, 2022 - 1 Chronicles 27-29

Another census was taken, as told in chapter 27, but David apparently had learned his lesson and did not so presumptuously rely upon his own strength and, though the number of fighting men was great, he knew his strength came from the Lord. In fact, could Psalm 20 be David’s reflection on these things? In the day of trouble, David asked for God’s protection and help. And he added, “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God” (Psalm 20:7). And David provides an interesting application in the following chapter: “And you, Solomon my son, know the God of your father and serve him with a whole heart and with a willing mind, for the Lord searches all hearts and understands every plan and thought” (28:9). David had learned his lesson as he counted and numbered his men, i.e., that the Lord knew his real heart and motivations.

Furthermore, David’s expectation that help would come from the sanctuary and support from Zion (Psalm 20:2) seems, further, to connect the psalm with the closing chapters in which David instructs Solomon on the building of the temple. From the One who inhabits the temple will come Solomon’s help. As David testified in his prayer before the Lord, “Both riches and honor come from you, and you rule over all. In your hand are power and might, and in your hand it is to make great and to give strength to all” (29:12). And so, the hope of David and Solomon is also our hope!

‘Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus,

and to take him at his word;

just to rest upon his promise,

and to know, “Thus saith the Lord.”

Jesus, Jesus, how I trust him!

How I’ve proved him o’er and o’er!

Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus!

O for grace to trust him more! -- Louisa M. R. Stead (1882)