1 Chronicles 22:16

Of the gold, the silver, and the brass, and the iron, there is no number. Arise therefore, and be doing, and the Lord be with thee.

1 Chronicles 22:16 (KJV)

Context

The book of 1 Chronicles records the history of King David and the establishment of his royal line. In this chapter, David prepares for the building of the temple, although he knows he will not build it himself. He gathers materials and gives instructions to his son Solomon, who will succeed him as king and carry out the work.

David speaks these words near the end of his life. He has already collected gold, silver, brass, and iron in great quantity. The phrase “there is no number” stresses the vastness of these supplies. A careful reading of 1 Chronicles 22:14 shows that the gold and silver were weighed and counted, while the brass and iron were so abundant that they were not numbered. This detail helps us understand the scale of David’s preparation.

Meaning

The verse has three main parts. First, it points to the abundance of resources. David’s careful gathering shows his wholehearted commitment to providing a worthy place for the worship of God. It also reflects the willing offerings of the people who supported this work.

Second, David calls Solomon to action: “Arise therefore, and be doing.” The command is urgent and personal. David knew that materials alone would not build the temple. Solomon had to begin the work and carry it forward with diligence. Preparation without action would leave the task undone.

Third, David adds the blessing “and the LORD be with thee.” This is not a mere wish. It is a prayer that God’s presence and favor would rest on Solomon. David recognized that human effort, however skilled, depends on God’s help for true success. The same God who provided the resources would also guide the builder.

Biblical connections

The pattern of preparation and action appears elsewhere in Scripture. In 1 Chronicles 28:20, David again encourages Solomon, saying, “Be strong and of good courage, and do it.” There, as here, the call to work is joined with the promise of God’s presence. The temple itself points forward to a greater reality: God dwelling among His people. Yet the immediate lesson remains clear. God supplies what is needed, and His people must respond in faithful obedience.

Application

David’s example teaches us about stewardship. We are called to use our resources wisely for God’s work. This includes not only money and possessions but also time, talents, and abilities. We should be willing to invest in efforts that honor God and serve others.

David’s command to Solomon also challenges us to take action. Good intentions and stored resources are not enough. We must begin the work God has given us, whether in our families, churches, or communities. Procrastination and fear can delay what God wants done.

At the same time, we must depend on God. David’s prayer for the Lord to be with Solomon reminds us that success comes from God’s presence and guidance. As we work, we should seek His wisdom and strength, knowing that our efforts are effective only through Him.

Reflection

Consider the resources God has placed in your hands. They may be few or many, but they are given for a purpose. Ask yourself: What work has God prepared for me to do? Am I waiting for better circumstances, or am I ready to arise and begin? Let David’s words move you from planning to action, and let his blessing be your prayer: that the Lord would be with you in every step of faithful service.