The history of Tri-City Baptist Church over the last eight years is that of a great people honored and blessed by a much greater God. Our move, with all its joys and sorrows, is now complete. The difficulties, the victories, the promises, the blessings, those passing before us into glory, and those who are staying behind in the work are all a part of the rich mosaic which is the history of TBC and its associated ministries. That is a great story, but God has even greater stories for us in the future!

I was reading recently in I Chronicles and came across a very, very fascinating verse (28:20):. "And David said to his son Solomon, ‘Be strong and of good courage, and do it; do not fear nor be dismayed, for the Lord God—my God—will be with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you, until you have finished all the work for the service of the house of the Lord.'" (NKJV)

This is such a rich verse and story. David is at the end of his life and has gathered literally billions worth of today's dollars of gold, silver, and special treasures as well as all the architectural plans for the temple. He knows he is about to die and wants Solomon to undertake the incredible job of building a permanent house for Jehovah. For over 500 years of Jewish history, since leaving Egypt, God's place of residence was in a movable tent. Now God was placing His presence in a permanent structure. Solomon must have surely been intimidated by all the past and future pressing on him.

Three thoughts strike me that apply to our ministry:

1. David knew hard things would happen in this project, and he wanted Solomon to stay focused and finish the job!
2. The basis for David's confidence was his personal relationship with God!
3. God never leaves those who with the right attitude work for His glory and honor!

Those each make me think. 1) The Christian life is not always comfortable, but I must "finish the job" of my life's work for the Lord. 2) I must continually have that personal relationship with God that is real and vibrant. 3) God is always near as I serve, even if at times it doesn't feel that way.

How about you? What has God burdened you to do that you think is too big or too hard? Do you have the confidence of God's love and protection that is gained only through those private times with God? Do you doubt God's love and protection because life might be a bit uncomfortable and nerve wracking right now? Let me assure you that the same God that encouraged and helped both David and Solomon is the God, my God, who has promised to always stand by you!

Michael D. Sproul, D.Min.
Senior Pastor