How can we support those chosen by God for specific tasks in the church? Scripture Snapshot “He said to me, ‘Solomon your son is the one who will build My house and My courts, for I have chosen him to be My son, and I will be his Father.’ ” Setting the Scene David announces that God has personally chosen Solomon for the monumental task of building the temple. The whole assembly now carries a sacred responsibility: to stand behind the one God has appointed. The same principle guides us whenever the Lord singles out men or women for specific roles in His church. Recognize and Affirm God’s Choice • Accept the appointment without jealousy or rivalry (Numbers 12:1-8). • Publicly acknowledge God’s hand on the individual, as David did for Solomon (1 Chronicles 28:4-5). • Speak words of affirmation that underline divine calling (2 Timothy 1:6). Pray Continually for Their Success • Intercede for wisdom, courage, and purity (Ephesians 6:19). • Ask God to guard their hearts and families (Philippians 1:19). • Pray for open doors and fruitful ministry (Colossians 4:3-4). Provide Tangible Resources • Offer practical help—time, skills, finances (1 Chronicles 29:2-9). • Maintain church facilities and tools so leaders can focus on people (Acts 6:1-4). • Share specialized gifts (music, teaching, administration) to lighten their load (Romans 12:6-8). Encourage Through Words and Presence • Show up consistently; presence itself fuels courage (2 Timothy 4:9-11). • Voice appreciation for faithful service (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13). • Celebrate milestones and victories to keep morale high (Philippians 4:10). Submit to Godly Leadership • Follow their lead as they follow Christ (Hebrews 13:17). • Resolve conflicts biblically to preserve unity (Matthew 18:15-17). • Guard against gossip; defend the integrity of your leaders (Titus 3:10-11). Hold Them Accountable in Love • Uphold biblical standards without partiality (1 Timothy 5:19-20). • Offer constructive feedback seasoned with grace (Ephesians 4:15). • Encourage regular rest and sabbath rhythms to prevent burnout (Mark 6:31). Stand with Them in Spiritual Battle • Identify and confront attacks of discouragement or accusation (Nehemiah 4:7-9). • Fast with them in critical seasons (Esther 4:15-16). • Rejoice when God grants victory, giving Him all glory (2 Chronicles 20:21-22). Multiply Support by Training Others • Help raise new leaders, just as David gathered craftsmen for Solomon (1 Chronicles 22:2-4). • Mentor emerging servants to share the weight (2 Timothy 2:2). • Create a culture where everyone discovers and exercises spiritual gifts (1 Peter 4:10). Keep Eyes Fixed on the Ultimate Builder • Remember that Christ is the head of the church (Colossians 1:18). • Serve with the joy of knowing your labor is for Him (1 Corinthians 15:58). • Look forward to hearing, “Well done, good and faithful servant” together (Matthew 25:23). When we rally around those God appoints, we participate in His grand design, echoing the harmonious response of Israel as Solomon began the temple work. By recognizing the call, praying fervently, giving generously, encouraging consistently, submitting humbly, correcting lovingly, battling spiritually, and multiplying leadership, we honor the Lord who still chooses and empowers His servants today. |