Another commentator remarking on the First Book of Chronicles has noted that the 29 chapters might seem dry history on its first reading, but that the writer here has used the history of all of Israel to encourage the newly returned exiles in their task of rebuilding the nation. ?Opening Up 1 Chronicles? relates past history to the church in our day and draws out useful lessons and applications. There is no escaping the history, chronology and genealogy of the two Books of Chronicles which leaves it often neglected in regular preaching and reading. However, here there are many perceptive observations on encouragements, principles which governed the Lord? dealings with His people, the reigns of Kings David and Solomon and the looking forward to the Kingdom of the Lord. There is much material on God?s promises and useful lessons on the devotional life of David, rejoicing before God, inquiring of God, thanksgiving and praise, sacrificial giving and his heartfelt prayer. Each chapter is thoughtfully written and very lively ? the little introduction at the beginning of each chapter is a good measure of the themes that each deals with. Alongside its companion volume by the same author on Opening Up 2 Chronicles, I would commend this as an excellent addition to personal and small group study guides.