by bredmaker at www.sxc.hu
Amanda heard a verse in ladies’ Bible class that encouraged her heart. It was . . .
“But the LORD said to David my father, ‘Whereas it was in your heart to build a house for my name, you did well that it was in your heart.” (1 Kings 8:18 ESV)
David desired to build the temple. He was not allowed to do so, because he was a man of war (1 Kings 5:3). Yet, God says it was good that he desired it. His intentions, plans, and heart was good.
This verse encouraged Amanda, because as a preacher’s wife, home-schooling mother, and stay-at-home mom to 4 kids she has many things she wishes she could do. These are things she used to do. Ideas she desires to carry out in her service to God and others, but there just isn’t enough time. She doesn’t have the opportunity to do them because of her commitments at home. What she does often feels very little compared to her abilities, previous work, and desires.
I know the feeling too, not that I have as tough of job as she does, but being a preacher you never get as much done as you think you should. I still over plan most weeks and go home on Friday considering all the things I didn’t get to do.
I have spoken to many older Christians whose health has declined. They feel inappropriate guilt because they can’t do what they used to do, and certainly not what they want to do now. This verse speaks to them too.
God knows our heart. He understands. This is not an excuse for laziness, selfishness, or apathy towards kingdom work, but it is an encouragement to those of us who don’t feel like we do all we desire. God still gives credit for our heart and desire.
We do well when it is in our heart, even if we don’t get to do it.
