Most people hope to make their mark in the world. Throughout David's life, he had done many memorable things; however, as he grew old, there was one more monumental task that he wanted to complete. According to I Chronicles 17, David's greatest desire before death was to build a spectacular temple for God. When he consulted the prophet Nathan about his desire, the answer from God was that his son would be the one to do this. His disappointment did not keep him from doing all he could to make his son's job easier.
When Solomon takes over as Israel's king, he begins building the Lord's temple and spares no expense doing so. Great time, manpower, and money were involved in the construction of this structure. As Solomon dedicates the temple he says, "I have built thee a lofty house, and a place for thy dwelling forever" (2 Chronicles 6). This was no ordinary building. It was extraordinarily fashioned, but what truly made it special was that it was filled with the presence of God.
When Solomon takes over as Israel's king, he begins building the Lord's temple and spares no expense doing so. Great time, manpower, and money were involved in the construction of this structure. As Solomon dedicates the temple he says, "I have built thee a lofty house, and a place for thy dwelling forever" (2 Chronicles 6). This was no ordinary building. It was extraordinarily fashioned, but what truly made it special was that it was filled with the presence of God.
As I read these words, I couldn't help but contrast this with what we are told about God's dwelling place today. God allowing Solomon to build the temple was a special honor, but He has given us an even greater privilege. The new house of God is not made of gold or magnificent cedars, but it is fearfully and wonderfully made (1 Kings 6, Psalms 139:14). The house of God is no longer a building made with human hands, but now, "we are the temple of the living God" (Acts, 17:24-26, 2 Corinthians 6:16). He lives in us.
When people looked at the temple, they saw magnificence. They identified it is as the house of God. I leave you with this thought. When people look at us, are they able to recognize that there is one living in us that is greater than "he who is in the world?" (I John 4:4)
As you read this week, please use the comments section of this post to share thoughts that inspire you. Next week's post will come from 2 Chronicles 11:1-28:27; Ps 18:37-23:6; Prov 19:27-20:11; Romans 8:26-13:14.
Jane
Scripture taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, Copyright 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.
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