Entrepreneurial leadership can feel like a daunting and lonely endeavor. Thankfully, God gives guidance and encouragement in the scriptures, specifically in the account of David’s commissioning of his son Solomon to build the temple of God (1 Chronicles 28-29).

Contained in this account are four gems of leadership wisdom, related to four key aspects of entrepreneurial endeavors: the Person, the Plan, the People, and the Provision.

In the coming weeks, we will examine these jewels one by one, considering the truths contained within and asking questions for personal self-reflection.

Today, we look at the Person.

David’s commission focuses on the person of Solomon, the leader of this build-the-temple enterprise. David emphasizes three facets: Solomon’s calling, his connection with God, and his character.

Calling

David affirms that God has chosen Solomon to sit on the throne and to build a house for the sanctuary 1. God’s calling on our lives is central to our leadership in our enterprises. Jesus says in John 15:16, “You didn’t choose me, remember; I chose you and put you in the world to bear fruit, fruit that won’t spoil.” (MSG).

• How would I describe God’s calling of me?
• What has God chosen me to build in, through, and beyond my business?

Connection with God

David also charges Solomon to know, serve, and seek God with a whole heart and a willing mind 2. In order to build a house for the Lord, Solomon’s connection with God would be paramount. King Hezekiah of Judah is another example of seeking God with a whole heart:

In everything that he undertook in the service of God’s temple and in obedience to the law and the commands, he sought his God and worked wholeheartedly. And so he prospered. (2 Chronicles 31:21)

• How is my daily time with God; am I getting to know Him more and more?
• Do I seek Him daily, and am I serving God with a whole heart and willing mind?

Character

Lastly, David encourages Solomon to be strong and courageous and do the work – all aspects of character 3. He challenges Solomon not to fear or be dismayed. Why? Because God “is with you” and “will not fail you or forsake you until all the work for the service of the house of the LORD is finished.” God won’t leave us or let us down while we’re accomplishing His calling of us. Isaiah 41:10 is a bulwark for us in our leadership:

“Fear not [there is nothing to fear], for I am with you; do not look around you in terror and be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen and harden you to difficulties, yes, I will help you; yes, I will hold you up and retain you with My [victorious] right hand of rightness and justice.” (AMP)

• When things are tough, what gives me strength and courage?
• How do I get strength from God?
• What work does God have for me to accomplish?

Verse(s) of the Week:

Let’s consider taking the time this week to read through the account of David’s commissioning of his son Solomon, especially the portion in 1 Chronicles 28:5-10. Consider thinking through the reflection questions from each of the three sections (Calling, Connection, and Character) on different days, and share your insights with a friend or mentor.

1 1 Chronicles 28:5,6,10; 29:1