Generosity
Generosity
David’s generosity was lavish and served as a catalyst for the generosity of the people. Leaders will never see openhanded giving from their people if they are not willing to take the lead in this as well.
David had a personal treasure of gold from Ophir. The Hebrew word for “personal treasure” (sĕgullâ) occurs only seven times in the Hebrew Bible, elsewhere of Israel as the Lord’s precious, private possession (Exod 19:5; Deut 7:6; 14:2; 26:18; Ps 135:4; Mal 3:17).
The verb translated “be willing” (nādab) is used elsewhere in reference to making freewill offerings for building the tabernacle (Exod 25:2; 35:21, 29) and the second temple (Ezra 1:6; cf. 7:16)
It is used of gifts that were not required but prompted by one’s heart (Exod 25:2) or spirit (Exod 35:21).
Such a generous response from the leaders caused the people to rejoice
That the bringing of gifts to the Lord caused rejoicing is interesting. It implies that the people gave freely and wholeheartedly
“People are closest to God-likeness in self-giving, and the nearer they approach God-likeness the more genuinely and rightly they become capable of rejoicing.” As David had learned vividly and painfully, “The search for true happiness cannot be along the path of self-gratification
It ascribes to Yahweh the possession of everything in heaven and earth. His is the kingdom, and he is exalted as head over all (cf. 2 Chr 20:6). Wealth and honor come from him. He is ruler over all things, and in his hands are the strength and power to exalt and give strength to all.