Day 6 – A dwelling place for the Lord

1 Kings 8:17-19  “Now it was in the heart of my father David to build a house for the name of the Lord, the God of Israel. But the Lord said to my father David, ‘Because it was in your heart to build a house for My name, you did well that it was in your heart. Nevertheless, you shall not build the house, but your son who will be born to you, he will build the house for My name.”

These were the words that Solomon spoke at the ceremony when the Lord’s house was dedicated. It took Solomon seven years to build the temple, and now it was finally ready to become the dwelling place of the God of Israel. The Ark of the covenant was carefully carried into the holy of holies by the Levites who had to consecrate themselves for this task.

Since there were constant wars during David’s reign, God appointed Solomon to build Him a house where He could dwell amongst His people. Solomon took this task extremely seriously. Three chapters were dedicated to describing the building of this beautiful temple for which Solomon certainly spared no expense (1 Kings 5-7).

The Lord’s presence was so incredibly glorious that the priests couldn’t remain standing to minister. It came like a cloud and Solomon described it as “thick darkness”. The king blessed his nation’s people, and kneeling with arms stretched out to the heavens, he proceeded to bless the Lord, God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. He prayed a beautiful prayer, glorifying God and praising Him for His mercy and His promises.

Where does this leave us today? Where is God’s presence?

Prayer: Blessed are You, Lord who have given rest to Your people according to all that You promised. Not one word has failed of all Your good promise which You promised through Moses Your servant. Thank you, Lord that You are faithful and just, and that Your promises are yes and amen, still as relevant and life-giving as they were in the beginning. Amen.

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