And David said to Solomon his son, Be strong and of good courage, and do it: fear not, nor be dismayed: for the LORD God, even my God, will be with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee, until thou hast finished all the work for the service of the house of the LORD.

1 CHRONICLES 28:20KJV
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1 Chronicles 28:20 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 28:20 mean?

1 Chronicles 28:20 records King David encouraging his son Solomon to be strong and courageous as he takes on the task of building the temple for the LORD. David reassures Solomon that God will be with him, promising that God will not abandon or fail him until all the work for the temple is complete.

David is speaking directly to Solomon, his son, as he prepares to hand over the responsibility of constructing the temple—something David himself wanted to do but was not allowed by God. The verse highlights a moment of transition and trust, with David passing on both a practical charge and a spiritual assurance. The focus is on Solomon’s need for courage and the certainty of God’s presence and faithfulness throughout the demanding project.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 28:20

  • חֲזַק (ḥazaq, "be strong"): This word often means to take courage or to be resolute, not just physically strong but also firm in purpose. David is urging Solomon to have inner strength for the task ahead.
  • אֱמָץ (’ematz, "of good courage"): This word emphasizes being determined and brave, especially in the face of difficulty. It pairs with "be strong" to stress both resolve and bravery.
  • יָרֵא (yare’, "fear"): This word can mean to be afraid or intimidated. David tells Solomon not to let fear stop him, suggesting that the task may seem overwhelming.
  • יַעֲזְבֶךָ (ya‘azveka, "forsake"): This word means to leave or abandon. David assures Solomon that God will not desert him, highlighting God's reliability and commitment.

Why 1 Chronicles 28:20 matters

  • This verse clarifies that the work of building the temple was not just a construction project but a spiritual calling, with God’s presence and help promised throughout.
  • The emphasis on not fearing or being dismayed shows that even great leaders like Solomon could feel overwhelmed, and that encouragement and reassurance were needed.
  • The verse connects to the larger story of David’s life and legacy, showing his faith in God’s promises and his desire to see his son succeed in serving God’s purposes.

Where else these words appear

“courage” Hebrew H553 · used in 41 verses

  • Genesis 25:23 And the LORD said unto her, Two nations are in thy womb, and two manner of people shall be separated from thy bowels; and the one people shall be stronger than the other people; and the elder shall serve the younger.
  • 2 Samuel 22:18 He delivered me from my strong enemy, and from them that hated me: for they were too strong for me.
  • Psalms 27:14 Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.

“fail” Hebrew H7503 · used in 45 verses

  • Exodus 4:26 So he let him go: then she said, A bloody husband thou art, because of the circumcision.
  • 1 Samuel 15:16 Then Samuel said unto Saul, Stay, and I will tell thee what the LORD hath said to me this night. And he said unto him, Say on.
  • Proverbs 4:13 Take fast hold of instruction; let her not go: keep her; for she is thy life.

“dismayed” Hebrew H2865 · used in 48 verses

  • Deuteronomy 1:21 Behold, the LORD thy God hath set the land before thee: go up and possess it, as the LORD God of thy fathers hath said unto thee; fear not, neither be discouraged.
  • Job 32:15 They were amazed, they answered no more: they left off speaking.
  • Jeremiah 17:18 Let them be confounded that persecute me, but let not me be confounded: let them be dismayed, but let not me be dismayed: bring upon them the day of evil, and destroy them with double destruction.

“service” Hebrew H5656 · used in 125 verses

  • Genesis 29:27 Fulfil her week, and we will give thee this also for the service which thou shalt serve with me yet seven other years.
  • Numbers 4:30 From thirty years old and upward even unto fifty years old shalt thou number them, every one that entereth into the service, to do the work of the tabernacle of the congregation.
  • 1 Chronicles 23:24 These were the sons of Levi after the house of their fathers; even the chief of the fathers, as they were counted by number of names by their polls, that did the work for the service of the house of the LORD, from the age of twenty years and upward.