Finishing Well: David's Legacy of Faith and Stewardship
Summary
As we come to the close of our journey through the life of David, we find ourselves at a moment of deep reflection—both for David and for ourselves. David, nearing the end of his life, models for us how to finish well: by looking back with gratitude, looking ahead with intentionality, and looking up in worship. He recounts the blessings and faithfulness of God, even amid his own failures and disappointments. David recognizes that while he was not permitted to build the temple, he was able to generously provide for it, ensuring that his resources would honor God and bless future generations. This is a powerful reminder that our stewardship—how we use what God has entrusted to us—matters far beyond our own lifetimes.
David also looks ahead, charging the leaders and his son Solomon to remain faithful to God’s commands. He knows from experience the cost of disobedience and the blessing of faithfulness. His legacy is not just in what he accomplished, but in how he prepared others to carry on the work of God’s kingdom. He urges Solomon to serve God with wholehearted devotion, knowing that all the opportunities and resources in the world are meaningless without a heart aligned with God.
In his final moments, David looks up, offering praise and thanksgiving to God before interceding for those he will leave behind. He models a prayer life that begins with worship, moves to gratitude, and then to selfless intercession. Even as he faces death, David celebrates the present, rejoicing in the community and the succession of leadership that will continue God’s work.
Ultimately, the call is clear: our lives are not just about what we accumulate or achieve, but about how we invest in God’s kingdom and in others. Jesus’ final command to make disciples is the most important legacy we can leave. We are challenged to use our time, resources, and influence to help others come to know and follow Jesus, ensuring that the work of God continues and grows long after we are gone.
Key Takeaways
- Reflecting on God’s Faithfulness in Our Story
David’s review of his life teaches us to look for God’s hand in both our triumphs and our failures. Even when our plans are not fulfilled as we hoped, God is still at work, weaving good out of every circumstance. If we choose to look for God’s goodness, we will find it—even in seasons of disappointment or regret. This perspective transforms our past and gives us hope for the future. [27:03]
- Stewardship that Outlives Us
David’s generosity toward the temple project reminds us that true stewardship is not about the amount we possess, but about how we use what we have for God’s purposes. Planning ahead—both in our giving and in our legacy—ensures that our resources continue to advance God’s kingdom after we are gone. The impact of our stewardship is measured not by temporary pleasures, but by eternal investments in God’s work. [36:11]
- Legacy Begins Now, Not Later
The legacy we leave is not written in our final days, but in the daily choices we make. David’s charge to the leaders and to Solomon is a call to intentional living: to prioritize obedience, to model faith, and to set up the next generation for spiritual success. It’s never too late to start shaping a legacy that points others to God, but the best time to begin is always now. [44:33]
- Prayer that Starts with Praise and Flows to Others
David’s final prayer is a model for us: begin with praise, move to thanksgiving, and then intercede for others. This order shifts our focus from our problems to God’s greatness, and from ourselves to the needs of those around us. Intercessory prayer is an act of love and humility, reminding us that we are part of a larger story and community. [58:02]
- The Main Thing: Making Disciples
Jesus’ final command is not just for pastors or missionaries, but for every follower: make disciples. This is the most significant work we can do with our lives. It’s not about being perfect, but about consistently pointing others to Jesus—by our words, our actions, and our willingness to share our hope. When we keep this as our focus, we ensure that our lives have eternal impact. [01:11:33]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[02:10] - Series Recap and Introduction
[06:45] - The Weight of Last Words
[12:30] - David Looks Back: Gratitude and Regret
[19:55] - God’s Faithfulness in David’s Story
[27:03] - The Blessing of Generosity
[36:11] - Stewardship and Planning for the Future
[44:33] - Legacy: Preparing the Next Generation
[49:58] - David’s Charge to Solomon
[55:58] - The Heart Above All
[58:02] - David’s Model of Prayer
[01:04:23] - Celebration and Succession
[01:09:05] - Investing in the Future
[01:11:33] - The Great Commission: Our Main Calling
[01:19:07] - Prayer Requests and Closing
[01:27:11] - Final Blessing and Dismissal
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: Finishing Well—Lessons from David’s Last Days
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### Bible Reading
1 Chronicles 28:2-10, 1 Chronicles 29:1-5, 10-19 (ESV)
> 1 Chronicles 28:2-10
Then King David rose to his feet and said: “Hear me, my brothers and my people. I had it in my heart to build a house of rest for the ark of the covenant of the Lord and for the footstool of our God, and I made preparations for building. But God said to me, ‘You may not build a house for my name, for you are a man of war and have shed blood.’ Yet the Lord God of Israel chose me from all my father’s house to be king over Israel forever. For he chose Judah as leader, and in the house of Judah my father’s house, and among my father’s sons he took pleasure in me to make me king over all Israel. And of all my sons (for the Lord has given me many sons) he has chosen Solomon my son to sit on the throne of the kingdom of the Lord over Israel. He said to me, ‘It is Solomon your son who shall build my house and my courts, for I have chosen him to be my son, and I will be his father. I will establish his kingdom forever if he continues strong in keeping my commandments and my rules, as he is today.’ Now therefore in the sight of all Israel, the assembly of the Lord, and in the hearing of our God, observe and seek out all the commandments of the Lord your God, that you may possess this good land and leave it for an inheritance to your children after you forever. And you, Solomon my son, know the God of your father and serve him with a whole heart and with a willing mind, for the Lord searches all hearts and understands every plan and thought. If you seek him, he will be found by you, but if you forsake him, he will cast you off forever.”
> 1 Chronicles 29:1-5
And David the king said to all the assembly, “Solomon my son, whom alone God has chosen, is young and inexperienced, and the work is great, for the palace will not be for man but for the Lord God. So I have provided for the house of my God, so far as I was able, the gold for the things of gold, the silver for the things of silver, and the bronze for the things of bronze, the iron for the things of iron, and wood for the things of wood, besides great quantities of onyx and stones for setting, antimony, colored stones, all sorts of precious stones and marble. Moreover, in addition to all that I have provided for the holy house, I have a treasure of my own of gold and silver, and because of my devotion to the house of my God I give it to the house of my God: 3,000 talents of gold, of the gold of Ophir, and 7,000 talents of refined silver, for overlaying the walls of the house, and for all the work to be done by craftsmen. Who then will offer willingly, consecrating himself today to the Lord?”
> 1 Chronicles 29:10-19
Therefore David blessed the Lord in the presence of all the assembly. And David said: “Blessed are you, O Lord, the God of Israel our father, forever and ever. Yours, O Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the majesty, for all that is in the heavens and in the earth is yours. Yours is the kingdom, O Lord, and you are exalted as head above all. Both riches and honor come from you, and you rule over all. In your hand are power and might, and in your hand it is to make great and to give strength to all. And now we thank you, our God, and praise your glorious name. ... O Lord, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, our fathers, keep forever such purposes and thoughts in the hearts of your people, and direct their hearts toward you. Grant to Solomon my son a whole heart that he may keep your commandments, your testimonies, and your statutes, performing all, and that he may build the palace for which I have made provision.”
> Matthew 28:18-20
And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
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### Observation Questions
1. What reasons did God give David for not allowing him to build the temple, and how did David respond to this disappointment? (1 Chronicles 28:2-6; [12:30])
2. According to 1 Chronicles 29:1-5, what did David do to prepare for the building of the temple, even though he would not see it completed? ([36:11])
3. In David’s final public prayer (1 Chronicles 29:10-19), what order does he follow in his prayer, and who does he pray for? ([58:02])
4. What is the main command Jesus gives his followers in Matthew 28:18-20, and how does this relate to David’s focus at the end of his life? ([01:11:33])
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### Interpretation Questions
1. How does David’s attitude toward his unfulfilled plans (not building the temple) show us a way to handle our own disappointments and regrets? ([12:30])
2. Why do you think David emphasized generosity and stewardship in his final days? What does this reveal about his understanding of legacy? ([36:11])
3. David charges Solomon and the leaders to serve God with wholehearted devotion. Why is the condition of the heart so important for those who lead or influence others? ([55:58])
4. Jesus’ command to make disciples is described as the “main thing” for every believer. Why do you think this is so central, and what might happen if we lose focus on this command? ([01:11:33])
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### Application Questions
1. David looked back on his life and chose to focus on God’s faithfulness, even in times of failure or disappointment. When you look back on your own story, are there disappointments or regrets that you need to see through the lens of God’s faithfulness? How might this change your perspective? ([27:03])
2. David made intentional plans to use his resources for God’s purposes, even after his death. Have you thought about how your time, money, or influence could be used to bless others and advance God’s kingdom beyond your lifetime? What is one practical step you could take this month to plan for that? ([36:11])
3. The sermon said, “Legacy begins now, not later.” What are some daily choices you are making that will shape the legacy you leave? Is there a change you feel prompted to make so your legacy points others to God? ([44:33])
4. David’s prayer started with praise, moved to thanksgiving, and then to intercession for others. How does your current prayer life compare to this model? What is one way you could shift your prayers this week to follow David’s example? ([58:02])
5. The main thing Jesus calls us to do is make disciples. Who is one person in your life right now that you could intentionally encourage or help take a step closer to Jesus? What would it look like to “brag on Jesus” in your conversations with them? ([01:11:33])
6. The sermon challenged us to invest in the next generation and set them up for spiritual success. If you have children, grandchildren, or younger people in your life, what is one way you can help them know and follow God more closely? ([49:33])
7. When you think about the end of your life, what do you hope people will say about your faith and the way you invested in God’s kingdom? What is one thing you can do this week to move closer to that goal? ([06:45])
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End of Guide
Devotional
Day 1: Looking Back with Gratitude for God’s Faithfulness
As we reflect on our lives, it’s easy to focus on regrets or missed opportunities, but David’s example encourages us to look back and recognize the good things God has done, even when life didn’t go as planned. By intentionally searching for God’s faithfulness and blessings, we can see how He has been present through both our successes and failures, working all things together for our good. Even the hard moments may have led to unexpected blessings, and a grateful heart helps us see God’s hand in every season. [32:00]
1 Chronicles 28:2-7 (ESV)
Then King David rose to his feet and said: “Hear me, my brothers and my people. I had it in my heart to build a house of rest for the ark of the covenant of the Lord and for the footstool of our God, and I made preparations for building. But God said to me, ‘You may not build a house for my name, for you are a man of war and have shed blood.’ Yet the Lord God of Israel chose me from all my father’s house to be king over Israel forever. For he chose Judah as leader, and in the house of Judah my father’s house, and among my father’s sons he took pleasure in me to make me king over all Israel. And of all my sons (for the Lord has given me many sons) he has chosen Solomon my son to sit on the throne of the kingdom of the Lord over Israel. He said to me, ‘It is Solomon your son who shall build my house and my courts, for I have chosen him to be my son, and I will be his father. I will establish his kingdom forever if he continues strong in keeping my commandments and my rules, as he is today.’”
Reflection: What is one specific way you have seen God’s faithfulness in your life, even in a situation that didn’t go as you hoped? Take a moment to thank Him for it today.
Day 2: Honoring God with Generosity and Stewardship
David found great joy in giving generously from his resources to honor God, recognizing that everything he had was a blessing from the Lord. True stewardship is not about the amount we possess, but about using what we have—whether little or much—in ways that honor God and advance His kingdom. Planning ahead to bless others, even beyond our lifetime, is a powerful way to ensure our resources continue to make an eternal difference. [36:00]
1 Chronicles 29:1-5 (ESV)
And David the king said to all the assembly, “Solomon my son, whom alone God has chosen, is young and inexperienced, and the work is great, for the palace will not be for man but for the Lord God. So I have provided for the house of my God, so far as I was able, the gold for the things of gold, the silver for the things of silver, and the bronze for the things of bronze, the iron for the things of iron, and wood for the things of wood, besides great quantities of onyx and stones for setting, antimony, colored stones, all sorts of precious stones and marble. Moreover, in addition to all that I have provided for the holy house, I have a treasure of my own of gold and silver, and because of my devotion to the house of my God I give it to the house of my God: 3,000 talents of gold, of the gold of Ophir, and 7,000 talents of refined silver, for overlaying the walls of the house, and for all the work to be done by craftsmen. Who then will offer willingly, consecrating himself today to the Lord?”
Reflection: How can you intentionally use your resources—time, talents, or finances—this week to honor God and invest in something that will outlast you?
Day 3: Building a Lasting Legacy of Faith
David’s concern for the future went beyond his own life; he charged the leaders and his son Solomon to follow God wholeheartedly, knowing that true legacy is found in passing on faith and obedience to the next generation. The choices we make today—how we honor God, how we teach and model faith—are shaping the legacy we leave for our families, our church, and our community. It’s never too late to start building a legacy that points others to God. [55:58]
1 Chronicles 28:8-9 (ESV)
“Now therefore in the sight of all Israel, the assembly of the Lord, and in the hearing of our God, observe and seek out all the commandments of the Lord your God, that you may possess this good land and leave it for an inheritance to your children after you forever. And you, Solomon my son, know the God of your father and serve him with a whole heart and with a willing mind, for the Lord searches all hearts and understands every plan and thought. If you seek him, he will be found by you, but if you forsake him, he will cast you off forever.”
Reflection: What is one intentional step you can take today to help instill faith and love for God in someone who will come after you?
Day 4: Approaching God with Praise, Thanksgiving, and Intercession
David’s final recorded prayer is a model for us: he begins with praise, moves to thanksgiving, and then intercedes for others. Starting our prayers with praise and gratitude shifts our perspective, reminding us of God’s greatness and faithfulness before we bring our needs or the needs of others. Interceding for others, especially in times of our own struggle, helps us remember we are part of a larger family and that God’s heart is for all His people. [01:01:36]
1 Chronicles 29:10-13, 18-19 (ESV)
Therefore David blessed the Lord in the presence of all the assembly. And David said: “Blessed are you, O Lord, the God of Israel our father, forever and ever. Yours, O Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the majesty, for all that is in the heavens and in the earth is yours. Yours is the kingdom, O Lord, and you are exalted as head above all. Both riches and honor come from you, and you rule over all. In your hand are power and might, and in your hand it is to make great and to give strength to all. And now we thank you, our God, and praise your glorious name… O Lord, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, our fathers, keep forever such purposes and thoughts in the hearts of your people, and direct their hearts toward you. Grant to Solomon my son a whole heart that he may keep your commandments, your testimonies, and your statutes, performing all, and that he may build the palace for which I have made provision.”
Reflection: Before you ask God for anything today, spend time praising Him for who He is and thanking Him for what He’s done—then pray specifically for someone else’s needs.
Day 5: Making Disciples—The Most Important Mission
Jesus’ final command to His followers was clear: our highest calling is to help others come to know and follow Him, making disciples who will continue the work of God’s kingdom long after we are gone. This mission is not just for pastors or leaders, but for every believer, and it happens as we share our faith in word and action, investing in others so that the legacy of faith continues. Let’s keep the main thing the main thing, using our lives to point others to Jesus. [01:12:00]
Matthew 28:18-20 (ESV)
And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
Reflection: Who is one person in your life you can intentionally encourage or invite to know and follow Jesus this week? What step will you take to reach out to them?
Quotes
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