Year of the Bible: Part Six of Twelve Sampel

God's House

David's grand plans to build a house for God were a touching testament of his loyal love toward God and a cool picture of the kind of love God enjoys receiving from His kids. Solomon went on to build God's home on earth, and today's reading is about the day he gave it to God as a gift, together with all of Israel.

As you read, notice Solomon's declaration about the vast immeasurability of God's presence. He questioned, "Will God indeed dwell on the earth? Behold, heaven cannot contain you, much less this house!" (1 Kings 8:27).

Solomon recognized how small the temple was, compared to God's presence. He prophetically pointed to God's future home: all of us, the Church! On dedication day, the glory of the Lord filled the temple, so thick and heavy that the priest could not stand. Today, God desires to fill every believer and gathering of believers with His weighty glory. His glory shifts environments and hearts. Can you believe it? God has chosen to dwell with us, in each of us!

Question: Do you believe God dwells in a church building or in you? Your answer will change the way you live.

Prayer: Adapted from 1 Kings 8:23. O Lord, God of Israel, there is no God like You, in heaven above or on the earth beneath, keeping Your covenant promises and showing Your steadfast and loyal love to Your servants who walk before You with all their hearts. Ignite in us a hunger for more of You, God! Visit us with Your weighty glory and give it without finding fault. In Jesus' name, Amen!