1 Chronicles 22:15
Moreover there are workmen with thee in abundance, hewers and workers of stone and timber, and all manner of cunning men for every manner of work.
1 Chronicles 22:15 (KJV)
Context
In 1 Chronicles 22, King David prepares for the construction of the temple that his son Solomon would build. David was not allowed to build the temple himself because of his involvement in warfare and shedding blood (1 Chronicles 22:8). Instead, he made extensive preparations and gathered resources for Solomon to carry out the task.
Meaning
David tells Solomon that there are workmen with him in abundance: hewers and workers of stone and timber, and all manner of cunning men for every manner of work. The phrase “cunning men” means skilled or expert craftsmen. The verse lists specific trades: stonecutters, masons (workers of stone), carpenters (workers of timber), and joiners and carvers (cunning men for every manner of work). These workers were gathered from the strangers in the land by David’s order (1 Chronicles 22:2), and they were skilled in all manner of work. The abundance of skilled labor was part of David’s preparation, ensuring that Solomon had everything needed to build the temple. This preparation was not only material but also organizational, as David had gathered and organized the workforce.
Biblical connections
The following verse (1 Chronicles 22:16) continues with the abundance of gold, silver, brass, and iron, and the command to “arise therefore, and be doing, and the LORD be with thee.” This context shows that the provision of workers was part of God’s enabling for the work. The verse also reflects the principle that God provides the right people for His work, as seen in the church where there are “all manner of cunning men for every manner of work.“
Application
Diligence in God’s work: Like David, we should demonstrate diligence and commitment in carrying out the work that God has assigned to us. Whether it is serving in the church, ministering to others, or fulfilling our specific callings, we should strive for excellence and dedication.
Utilising our talents: Just as David gathered skilled artisans, we should recognise and utilise the unique abilities and talents that God has given us. When we use our talents for God’s purposes, we contribute to the building and edification of His kingdom.
Recognising God’s presence: The temple in the Old Testament represented God’s presence among His people. As Christians, we understand that we are now the temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). We should honour God’s presence in our lives by living in a way that glorifies Him, displaying His love, grace, and righteousness to the world.
Reflection
David’s preparation for the temple shows that God values excellence and order in His work. The skilled workers were not just labourers; they were part of a divine plan. In the same way, every believer has a role in God’s kingdom, and our skills, when dedicated to Him, become part of His greater purpose. The abundance of workers also reminds us that God supplies what He commands. When He calls us to a task, He also provides the people, resources, and abilities needed to accomplish it. We can trust Him to equip us for every good work.
