How can recognizing God's chosen leaders enhance your support for church leadership today? Seeing God’s Choice in 1 Chronicles 29:1 “Then King David said to the whole assembly, ‘My son Solomon — God has chosen him alone — is young and inexperienced, and the work is great; for the temple will not be for man, but for the LORD God.’” Key observations • David publicly names Solomon as God’s choice, even though Solomon is “young and inexperienced.” • The task (“the work is great”) belongs to the Lord, so honoring His selection is non-negotiable. • Recognition of God’s appointment calls the whole assembly to rally in unity and generosity (vv. 2-9). Why Recognizing God-Appointed Leaders Matters • Alignment with God’s will – Numbers 27:18: The LORD singles out Joshua; Moses lays hands on him. – Romans 13:1-2: “There is no authority except from God.” To resist is to oppose God Himself. • Protection of the flock – Acts 20:28: Elders are “appointed by the Holy Spirit to shepherd the church of God.” • Spiritual growth and equipping – Ephesians 4:11-12: Leaders exist “to equip the saints for works of ministry.” Valuing them accelerates maturity. • Joyful obedience yields blessing – Hebrews 13:17: “Obey your leaders and submit to them… so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you.” Practical Ways to Strengthen Your Support Today 1. Acknowledge God’s hand • Verbally affirm: “God has placed you here for this season.” • Refuse gossip or divisive talk that questions His choice. 2. Pray intentionally • Colossians 4:3-4 style: Ask the Lord to “open a door” for their ministry and give clarity. 3. Encourage generously • Send notes, texts, or face-to-face words of gratitude (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13). 4. Share resources • Like the Israelites bringing gold and silver for the temple (1 Chronicles 29:6-9), fund the vision God gives your leaders. 5. Serve alongside • Offer time and talents; your participation legitimizes their leadership and lightens their load (Philippians 2:22). 6. Submit with discernment • Submission is not blind; it’s informed by Scripture and guided by the Spirit (Acts 17:11). 7. Protect their rest • Encourage sabbath rhythms and guard them from burnout, honoring their humanity (Mark 6:31). Benefits You’ll Experience • Deeper unity in the body, reflecting Psalm 133’s “pleasant” harmony. • A stronger witness; a church that honors leadership showcases order and love to a watching world. • Personal growth; humility toward leaders cultivates teachability before God. • Accelerated mission; when leaders are supported, ministry initiatives advance unhindered. Living It Out Recognize the Solomons God raises up, even when they seem “young and inexperienced.” Echo David’s example: publicly affirm, supply what’s needed, and rally others to do the same. As you honor those the Lord appoints, you align with His purposes, strengthen His church, and open your own life to fresh blessing. |