1 Chronicles 29:15

For we are foreigners and strangers in Your presence, as were all our forefathers. Our days on earth are like a shadow, without hope.

Study Bible

For we are foreigners and sojourners
The Hebrew words for "foreigners" (גֵּרִים, gerim) and "sojourners" (תוֹשָׁבִים, toshavim) convey a sense of temporary residence and lack of permanent status. In the ancient Near Eastern context, these terms were often used to describe people living in a land that was not their own, without the rights of citizenship. This reflects a deep theological truth about the human condition from a biblical perspective: believers are seen as temporary residents on earth, with their true citizenship in heaven (Philippians 3:20). This understanding calls Christians to live with a sense of detachment from worldly possessions and status, focusing instead on their eternal home.

in Your presence
The phrase "in Your presence" emphasizes the omnipresence of God and the reality that all of life is lived before Him. In the Hebrew context, living "in the presence" of God implies accountability and a relationship with the divine. It is a reminder that, despite being foreigners and sojourners, believers are never outside of God's watchful care and guidance. This presence provides comfort and assurance, knowing that God is intimately involved in the lives of His people.

as were all our fathers
This phrase connects the current generation with their ancestors, highlighting a continuity of faith and experience. The patriarchs, such as Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, were also described as sojourners (Hebrews 11:9-10), living in tents and looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God. This historical context serves as an encouragement to remain faithful and patient, trusting in God's promises as their forefathers did.

Our days on earth are like a shadow
The imagery of a shadow suggests transience and insubstantiality. In the Hebrew Bible, a shadow is often used to describe the fleeting nature of life (Job 8:9, Psalm 102:11). This metaphor serves as a humbling reminder of human mortality and the brevity of life. It encourages believers to live wisely, making the most of their time on earth by aligning their lives with God's purposes and values.

without hope
In the context of this verse, "without hope" does not imply despair but rather underscores the futility of placing hope in earthly things. The Hebrew understanding of hope (תִּקְוָה, tikvah) is often associated with waiting and expectation. For believers, true hope is found in God and His eternal promises, not in the temporary and uncertain nature of earthly life. This perspective calls Christians to anchor their hope in the eternal, unchanging nature of God and His kingdom.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The speaker of this verse, King David, is addressing God in a prayer of thanksgiving as he prepares for the construction of the temple, which his son Solomon will build.

2. Israelites
The people of Israel, whom David refers to as "foreigners and sojourners," acknowledging their transient existence on earth.

3. Temple Preparation
This verse is part of a larger context where David is gathering resources and making preparations for the building of the temple in Jerusalem.

4. Jerusalem
The city where the temple is to be built, representing the spiritual and political center of Israel.

5. Solomon
David's son, who is chosen to build the temple, continuing the legacy and covenant promises given to David.

Teaching Points

Understanding Our Transience
Recognize that our time on earth is temporary and fleeting, much like a shadow. This perspective should influence how we prioritize our lives and focus on eternal matters.

Living as Sojourners
Embrace the identity of being a foreigner and sojourner in this world. This means living with a mindset that our true citizenship is in heaven, influencing our values and decisions.

Hope Beyond the Earthly Life
While the verse mentions "without hope," it is crucial to understand this in the context of earthly life. Our ultimate hope is found in God and the eternal life promised through Christ.

Generational Faithfulness
Just as David acknowledges the faith of "all our fathers," we are called to continue the legacy of faithfulness, passing down the truth of God's promises to future generations.

Stewardship of Resources
In the context of temple preparation, consider how we can use our resources and talents for God's glory, contributing to His work on earth.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding our identity as "foreigners and sojourners" impact the way we live our daily lives?

2. In what ways can we cultivate a mindset that prioritizes eternal values over temporary earthly concerns?

3. How can the brevity of life, as described in this verse, motivate us to live with purpose and intentionality?

4. What are some practical ways we can pass down a legacy of faithfulness to the next generation?

5. How can we be good stewards of the resources God has entrusted to us, in light of the preparations David made for the temple?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 11:13-16
This passage speaks of the patriarchs who lived as strangers and exiles on the earth, seeking a heavenly homeland, which parallels the theme of being "foreigners and sojourners."

Psalm 39:4-5
David also reflects on the brevity of life, likening it to a shadow, which connects to the idea of our days being transient and fleeting.

1 Peter 2:11
Peter addresses believers as "foreigners and exiles," urging them to live godly lives, which echoes the identity of being temporary residents on earth.