Today’s “Bible Pick ‘Ems” comes from the book of 1 Kings.
The verses are taken from the beginning of King Solomon’s prayer of dedication for the newly-built Temple in Jerusalem. After hundreds of years, a permanent home for the presence of God was finally completed! It was a joyous time of celebration.
Solomon’s Temple was a glittering spectacle, displaying the riches of a prospering nation. As a dwelling place for God, it was fitting for the Temple to be beautiful.
In the final climactic moment, when all the building was complete, the Ark of the Covenant was brought into the Most Holy Place, and “…the glorious presence of the LORD filled the Temple.” (1 Kings 8:11)
Then Solomon gathered the people of Israel together to dedicate the Temple – but he also wanted them to rededicate themselves to God’s service.
“Then Solomon stood before the altar of the LORD in front of the entire community of Israel. He lifted his hands toward heaven, and he prayed.
‘O LORD, God of Israel, there is no God like you in all of heaven above or on the earth below. You keep your covenant and show unfailing love to all who walk before you in wholehearted devotion…
(and to the people of Israel)…And may you be completely faithful to the LORD our God. May you always obey his decrees and commands, just as you are doing today.’”
(1 Kings 8:22-23, 61)
Solomon declared that even the highest heavens, the far reaches of the universe, could not contain God. His majesty shines brighter than any light in the sky, and His riches far surpass any man-made structure.
Isn’t it amazing that God is willing to live in the hearts of those who believe in Him and love Him?!
So where is God's presence?
He's here, in my heart,
Directing my pathways
As He has from the start.
Where is God's presence?
He's here! Don't you see?
The Most High of the Universe
Dwells within me.
© Sharon Kirby, October 4, 2000
Let us walk in wholehearted devotion to Him – obeying Him always, just as we are doing today…
"When in doubt, search God out!"
Hi Sharon,
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing this Pick 'Em. Thinking of Solomon's prayer, "O LORD, God of Israel, there is no God like you in all of heaven above or on the earth below. You keep your covenant and show unfailing love to all who walk before you in wholehearted devotion…" -- This is the day that the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in Him.
Gotta go my sister but I want you to know how I appreciate you; you bless and encourage me.
Blessings and peace.
MTJ
It's good to rededicate ourselves to God. When we do, we refocus on Him and feel again that awe of knowing He lives within us.
ReplyDeleteMy spirit sure got a filling here today! God bless you, Sharon. You are a light in an often-times dark world. Keep shining!
ReplyDeleteI loved this... we are now the Ark when I think about it, that His presence should dwell within us! How amazing is that!
ReplyDeleteThanks for your comments, friends! You will never know how much they mean to me.
ReplyDeleteI join with all of you in rejoicing and praising God's name.
Remember the old hymn, "He Lives"?
These are my favorite lines from the end of the chorus:
He lives, He lives, salvation to impart...You ask me how I know He lives...HE LIVES WITHIN MY HEART!!
AMEN - God bless, everyone!
Love this post! Thanks.
ReplyDeletethis is so cool
ReplyDelete