Matthew 27:27-66, 1 Chronicles 27-29

1 Chronicles 29:18 – O Lord, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Israel, our fathers, keep forever such purposes and thoughts in the hearts of your people, and direct their hearts toward you.

Lord God, David knew that his people had a huge task in front of them. The temple that Solomon was going to build was a huge undertaking. And in this moment the people were all in for it. They were gladly and energetically bringing their offerings, but this energetic and glad momentum for this ministry needed to continue. Lord God, I know how this works in my own heart and life. I work in spurts and fits. I go through moments of high energy and excited zeal. I work hard with great excitement. I give of myself and I give of my money with great joy. Nothing holds me back. But as time passes I become apathetic, lethargic and sometimes even uncaring. I lose energy and my work becomes toil. I lose zeal and my offerings become a burden. And I’m not the only one. Lord God, your church on earth has a huge task – Get the gospel to all the world. And we’re not going to do it unless you, O God, keep your purposes in front of our hearts and minds forever. We need you to keep your purpose, your plan, and your will before our eyes daily. We need you, O Father in heaven, to direct and turn our hearts toward you always and not toward our own selfish gain or self-centered desires. Lord God, renew in us a heart focused on you and keep your purposes forever in our hearts and minds. Amen.