Lesson 19
Yahweh-Mekaddishkem – The Lord Who Sanctifies You (1 Chronicles 28:9; Leviticus 20:8)
“Now, Who is Willing to Consecrate Himself to the Lord?” (1 Chron. 29:5b)
Read 1 Chronicles 28:1-21; 29:1-22 www.bible.com/bible/59/1ch.28.esv

King David addressed all the leaders of Israel, explaining how the Lord had chosen his son Solomon, God’s adopted son and the next king, to build the permanent home for the Chest of the Covenant of God. Yahweh-Mekaddishkem, the Lord Who sanctifies, guaranteed the kingdom would continue as long as Solomon remained consecrated to God, obeying Him wholeheartedly. David charged the people of Israel to remain consecrated to the Lord also, obeying and studying all His commandments, thus ensuring the Promised Land for their children.

David turned toward his son Solomon, “Get to know my God well; serve Him eagerly with your whole mind and heart. Yahweh-Mekaddishkem knows your heart and each motive. You will find Him as you seek Him.” David charged Solomon, “You have been specially chosen to build the Lord’s holy house, so be courageous and do it with determination!”

King David then gave Solomon the plans for the whole building project, as God had instructed him step-by-step. He admonished Solomon to take charge with a pure, courageous and consecrated heart, guarding against anxiety and discouragement. He reassured his son God would be with him as he built this wonderful house for worship, the Lord working at his side from start to finish. Many skilled craftsmen and dedicated men of God were ready to work as soon as Solomon told them to begin.

David spoke again to the congregation, telling them the Temple would not just be a meeting place for them to get together, but a house for Yahweh-Mekaddishkem to meet with them. David talked about all the building materials he had gathered, and also revealed he had dedicated his kingly fortune to the Temple, more than 100 tons of gold and over 200 tons of silver.

Next the elderly king challenged the congregation, “How about you? Who is willing to consecrate himself to the Lord?” All the leaders in Israel came forward and gave generously. Many of the people put precious jewels in the treasury for the building of the Temple of God.
King David and all the people were eager to celebrate after so much was freely and willingly
given to God.

David blessed the Lord, giving thanks to Him and praising His Name. David and Solomon and all God’s people had consecrated themselves to their Yahweh-Mekaddishkem, the Lord Who sanctifies and sets apart for Himself. Because they belonged wholeheartedly to God, everything they had belonged to the Lord as well; they gave themselves and their possessions joyously to Him for His purposes.

Apply God’s Word to your life:
Compare 1 Chronicles 28:1-10 with Ephesians 1:4.
*How does the fact God has chosen you make you feel?
*Do you sense any responsibility because of this fact?
*Do you serve the Lord with your whole heart and a willing mind? (1 Chronicles 28:9)
*In what ways do you struggle in this area? What can you do about this?
*“Who then will offer willingly, consecrating himself today to the Lord?” (1 Chronicles 29:5b)