Know then Serve

“As for you, my son Solomon, know the God of your father,
and serve Him with a whole heart and a willing mind;
for the Lord searches all hearts, and understands every intent of the thoughts.
 If you seek Him, He will let you find Him;
but if you forsake Him, He will reject you forever.”
1 Chronicles 28:9
 
David is speaking here to Solomon about building a temple for the Lord God.  But his admonition to his son is so much greater.  It consumes all of life.  I think it is interesting that David tells Solomon to first know the God of your father, then serve Him.  Many Christian churches teach tradition and service and never lead their people to knowing their God first.  Serving without the Lord is futile.  It gains you nothing, for our best is as filthy rags (Isaiah 64:6).  Spend time at Jesus’ feet, then He will equip you and lead you into service.  Jumping into service first leaves you no time to just know God.  How do you learn to know God?  Read His word, pray, ask, seek, pray for a mentor or for a church or small group that will challenge you.  Spend time in worship and praise.  Know God and find joy and then you will be able to serve with your whole heart and a willing mind.