David’s speech concerning offerings to fund the building of the temple reminds me of pledge offering challenges I heard in my lifetime. I heard them in many social groups and on Christian radio, TV, concerts, and in congregational pews. “An unnamed individual(s) has given a match pledge offering challenge. The individual will match all offerings up to $$$s.”
I wondered, “They are going to give it anyway? Who are they kidding? Are they inspiring others, or do they have other motives?”
I like Jesus’ wise words, “Do not let your right hand know what your left hand is doing.” ” Do not announce it with trumpets.” (Matthew 6:2,3)
However, one phrase of David is unique in my experience: “Now, who is willing to consecrate themselves to the Lord today?” (5) Consecration refers to persons or things being separated to or belonging to God. David did not say the offerings would be consecrated. Rather, he said they would be consecrating themselves to God. I never considered giving to the Lord was concencrating myself to the Lord.
