David wanted to build God a proper house on this earth in
which He could visit His people. David's heart continually focused on God, and
he realized that he lived in a palace and God still dwelt in a tent from
Israel's days in the wilderness (Acts 13:22).
As a man of war, David was disqualified from building
this holy place (1 Chronicles 28:2-3). Yet, God allowed David to gather the
materials and for his son Solomon to build this grand palace for the Lord.
When they completed the temple, God's glory filled the
Holiest Place and He spoke to His chosen people (2 Chronicles 5-7). His main
request was that Israel repent of all sin and to live holy before Him.
Characteristically, Israel sinned before the Lord, and
God did as He warned them that He would do. He anointed a warring country to
destroy the temple and to take the people captive.
Yet, God allowed a faithful remnant of His people to
eventually return to the chosen land.
They were able to rebuild Jerusalem and a smaller temple. This actually grieved those who experienced the former glory, which they lost because of their sin (Ezra 3:12).
They were able to rebuild Jerusalem and a smaller temple. This actually grieved those who experienced the former glory, which they lost because of their sin (Ezra 3:12).
God's plan all along was to build a house for Himself
using living stones, acceptable to Him through our relationship with Jesus
Christ (1 Peter 2:4-12). We are His temple, and His Spirit dwells in our midst
(1 Corinthians 3:16).
The building where the church meets is not holy nor is it
God's house. It is simply a place for Believers to actively worship God who
dwells within us. God's Spirit builds Believers together into a holy dwelling
place for Him (Ephesians 2:22; Hebrew 3:6).
Heaven is God's throne and the earth is His footstool.
There is no temple grand enough for us to build for Him, which is more awesome
than the myriad of galaxies, which He created (Isaiah 66:1; Genesis 1:1).
Prayer:
Father God, remind us that our behavior is a reflection
on You (Psalm 23:3, 1 Timothy 3:14-15). You are holy and You call us to be holy
as well (1 Peter 1:16). You want us to have clean hands before we lift them up
in worship to You (Psalm 24:1-6, 134:2).
Search the hidden recesses of our inner being and see if
there is any wicked way in us, and lead us in Your everlasting way (Psalm
139:23-24). Heal us from the deep wounds inflicted on us by other people
(Proverbs 18:8). Fill us instead by Your deep, spiritual riches (Proverbs
24:4).
Thought for the Day:
God never wanted to dwell in buildings made with human
hands; but in the hearts of His People. - Acts 17:24
