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I. THAT MEN OFTEN LEAVE OUR WORLD WITH THE GREAT PURPOSES OF THEIR HEART UNWROUGHT. David was sincere in his purpose, and God approved of it; but it was nevertheless unaccomplished. With many, the brightest ideals of life are unfulfilled. Life with most is only a broken column — e.g., man of business, student, minister, philanthropist, patriot, politician, etc. By this we are taught the mystery of Providence and the incompleteness of human life. Among the things which contribute to such disappointments are:

(1)  want of means,

(2)  ill-health,

(3)  lack of opportunity.The Master's life is the only exception. He could say, "It is finished."

II. THAT GOD IS PLEASED TO ACCEPT THE SINCERE, THOUGH UNWROUGHT, PURPOSES OF THE HEART. David did not withhold or withdraw. In his heart and mind he saw in intention a beautiful temple erected to the honour and glory of God, and God accepted the will for the deed, because nothing more than purpose was within his power. Many poor, devoted, godly men and women have resolved to do great things, if only, etc.; weak ones, if only they had strength given; enthusiastic workers, if only doors should open, etc. But the purposes have remained unaccomplished, and God has said to each and all, "Thou didst well that it was in thine heart."

III. THAT THE GOOD PURPOSES UNWROUGHT BY ONE MAN MAY BE TAKEN UP AND COMPLETED BY ANOTHER. Solomon did what David could not. He completed what David began. No man is indispensable. Workers die, but God's work goes on. We enter into other men's labours, are heirs of the affluence of the ages. Responsibility is commensurate with privilege and opportunity. Let us, above all, seek to have our hearts right with God, filled with love for His works, ways, and word.

(F. W. Brown.)

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KJV: And it was in the heart of David my father to build an house for the name of the LORD God of Israel.

WEB: "Now it was in the heart of David my father to build a house for the name of Yahweh, the God of Israel.