What is the consuming ambition of your life? What is a dream that fills your mind and heart? King David’s dream was to build a temple for the Lord. He tells us about it in this Psalm. I wish more people had the same wonderful ambition—to be builders, not destroyer.

David defended Israel from her enemies and brought about peace in the land. Then he wanted to turn from battling to building. He wanted to exchange the sword for a trowel. He said, “I’m not going to have any sleep until I find a place for God to dwell” (v.5).

But God did not allow David to fulfil this high and holy ambition. Solomon, his son, build the temple instead. David was disappointed at first but then said, “If this is the will of God, I will accept it.” Then he did the most wonderful thing: he helped the next generation build the temple. David provided the plans and millions of dollars in gold, silver, precious stones, bronze and iron.

We may not fulfil all our plans and ambition, but we can do the next best thing. If God doesn’t let us accomplish our goals, let’s help somebody else meet his goals. Let’s pay the bill. Let’s give our wisdom. Let’s encourage. We can’t do everything, but we can do something. God can use you in more ways to accomplish His purposes. Let God use you in the ways He sees best.