Thou didst well in that it was in thine heart
William MacDonald teaches that God values the sincere desires of the heart to serve Him, even when circumstances prevent outward action.
In this devotional sermon, William MacDonald explores the biblical principle that God values the sincere desires of the heart to serve Him, even when external circumstances prevent action. Using the example of David's desire to build the Temple, MacDonald encourages believers that God rewards faithfulness and intention, not just visible deeds. This message offers comfort and hope to those hindered in their service, affirming that God honors their dreams and intentions.
Text
“Thou didst well in that it was in thine heart.” (1 Kings 8:18)
One of the great desires of David’s heart was to build a Temple for Jehovah in Jerusalem. The Lord sent word that he would not be permitted to build the Temple because he was a man of war, but the Lord added these significant words, “Thou didst well in that it was in thine heart.” It seems clear from this that God counts the desire for the act when we are unable to carry out our desires for Him.
This does not apply when our failure to perform is due to our own procrastination or inaction. Here the desire is not enough. As has been said, the streets of hell are paved with good intentions.
But there are many occasions in the Christian life when we want to do something to please the Lord but are prevented by circumstances beyond our control. A young convert, for instance, desires to be baptized but is forbidden by unbelieving parents. In such a case, God counts his unbaptism for baptism until he leaves home and can obey the Lord without being insubordinate to his parents.
A Christian wife desires to attend all the meetings of the local assembly but her drunken husband insists that she stay at home. The Lord rewards both her subjection to her husband and her desire to meet with others in His Name.
An aged sister wept as she watched others serving meals at a Bible Conference. It had been her great joy to do this for many years, but now she was physically unable. As far as God is concerned she receives as rich a reward for her tears as the others do for their labors.
Who knows how many there are who have willingly offered themselves for service on the mission fields, yet they were never able to travel beyond their own hometown? God knows—and all of these holy aspirations will be rewarded at the Judgment Seat of Christ.
The principle also applies in the matter of giving. There are those who are already investing sacrificially in the work of the Lord and just wish they could give more. In a coming day, the divine ledger will show that they did give more.
The ill, the handicapped, the shut-ins, the aged are not cut off from first-place honors, because, “in His mercy, God judges us, not only by our achievements, but by our dreams.”
Sermon Outline
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I
- David's desire to build the Temple
- God's refusal but commendation of the heart's intent
- The significance of sincere desire in God's eyes
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II
- Distinguishing between good intentions and procrastination
- Examples of prevented service due to external circumstances
- God's recognition of unfulfilled desires
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III
- Illustrations of believers hindered from serving
- God's reward for faithfulness despite limitations
- The principle applied to giving and other forms of service
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IV
- Encouragement for the ill, aged, and handicapped
- God judges by dreams as well as achievements
- The hope of reward at the Judgment Seat of Christ
Key Quotes
“Thou didst well in that it was in thine heart.” — William MacDonald
“God counts the desire for the act when we are unable to carry out our desires for Him.” — William MacDonald
“In His mercy, God judges us, not only by our achievements, but by our dreams.” — William MacDonald
Application Points
- Trust that God values your sincere desires to serve Him, even if you face obstacles.
- Avoid procrastination and strive to act on your intentions when possible.
- Find comfort in knowing that God honors your faith and dreams, rewarding them accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'Thou didst well in that it was in thine heart' mean?
It means God values the sincere desire to serve Him, even if one is unable to act on it due to circumstances beyond their control.
Does God accept intentions without action?
God accepts intentions when actions are prevented by uncontrollable circumstances, but not when failure is due to procrastination or neglect.
How does this teaching apply to giving?
Those who wish to give more but cannot are credited by God for their desire, recognizing their sacrificial intentions.
Can believers who are physically unable still serve God?
Yes, God rewards the faith and desires of those unable to serve physically, valuing their heart and tears as much as active labor.
What encouragement does this sermon offer to believers facing obstacles?
It encourages believers that God honors their heartfelt desires and will reward them even when circumstances prevent outward service.