BUILDING WITHOUT BITTERNESS

BUILDING WITHOUT BITTERNESS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Chronicles 28:2-10

Supporting Texts: 1 Kings 8:17-19, Proverbs 19:21, Romans 8:28, 2 Timothy 4:7-8, Psalm 37:5

INTRODUCTION:
David had a strong desire to build the house of God, but God chose his son Solomon instead. Instead of growing bitter, David accepted God's decision and began to prepare everything his son would need for the task. His actions revealed a man who had surrendered completely to God’s will and who understood the value of legacy over personal ambition.

This passage teaches us that divine assignments may not always align with our personal desires. God’s purposes transcend individuals and are often generational. Our response to divine redirection should be submission, preparation, and peace.

Bitterness can become a barrier to spiritual progress and future impact. However, when we accept God's decisions with the right heart, we play a critical role in setting others up for success and honouring God's eternal plans.

1. ACCEPTING GOD’S SOVEREIGN WILL

a) Surrender to divine decisions (Proverbs 19:21)
When God's will overrides our personal desires, we must trust that His purpose is superior to our plans.

b) God knows the future better than we do (Isaiah 46:10)
God sees the end from the beginning and knows who is best suited for each assignment.

c) Bitterness is a sign of pride and rebellion (Hebrews 12:15)
A bitter heart resents God's choices and hinders spiritual growth.

d) Submission brings peace and divine favour (James 4:7)
Submitting to God's will leads to inner peace and qualifies us for future divine trust.

Biblical Example: Moses accepting God’s decision not to enter the Promised Land (Deuteronomy 3:23-27)
Though Moses longed to enter Canaan, he accepted God's judgment and focused on preparing Joshua to lead Israel.

2. PREPARING THE NEXT GENERATION FOR GOD’S WORK

a) Legacy is built through intentional preparation (2 Timothy 2:2)
What we do today can empower others to continue God's work tomorrow.

b) David gathered materials, plans, and leaders (1 Chronicles 22:2-5)
He ensured Solomon had everything required to fulfil the divine assignment.

c) A prepared successor is better than a struggling one (Proverbs 13:22)
Preparing the next generation reflects wisdom, foresight, and spiritual maturity.

d) Preparation is proof of love for God and His people (John 21:17)
We must care enough to equip others for the tasks we cannot complete.

Biblical Example: Paul mentoring Timothy for ministry (2 Timothy 1:5-6)
Paul poured into Timothy, ensuring he would carry the gospel boldly into the future.

3. BUILDING WITH THE RIGHT ATTITUDE

a) Obedience is better than sacrifice (1 Samuel 15:22)
Obedience to God’s instruction is more valuable than the execution of our plans.

b) Gratitude instead of complaint (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
Thankfulness protects us from bitterness and helps us see God's hand in every situation.

c) Willingness to serve in any role (Colossians 3:23)
Even if we’re not the leader or front-runner, we can serve faithfully and joyfully.

d) Trusting God's timing and purpose (Ecclesiastes 3:1)
God’s plans unfold in His own time and often exceed our expectations.

Biblical Example: John the Baptist decreasing for Christ to increase (John 3:30)
John was content to fade into the background so that Jesus’ mission could take centre stage.

CONCLUSION:
David’s example shows us that being denied a personal desire doesn't mean we’re excluded from God’s purpose. Sometimes, the greater honour is in the preparation, not the execution. Building without bitterness is a powerful demonstration of spiritual maturity.

We must be ready to serve God’s agenda, even when it does not centre on us. By preparing others and letting go of offence, we ensure God’s glory is preserved, and His work continues beyond us.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, help me to surrender completely to Your will, even when it doesn't align with my desires.
2. Father, deliver me from the root of bitterness and fill my heart with peace.
3. Lord, use me to prepare the next generation for divine assignments.
4. I receive grace to submit joyfully to God’s instructions without murmuring.
5. Father, help me to build legacies that honour You and benefit others.
6. Lord, give me wisdom to identify and equip those who will succeed me.
7. I reject every spirit of comparison and jealousy that may hinder my joy.
8. Father, help me serve with the right heart, even in roles that are hidden.
9. Lord, teach me how to invest in others selflessly and faithfully.
10. I declare that I will finish my own divine assignment with joy and peace.