2 Chronicles 2 – 9

Solomon accepted the great challenge to build the Temple his father David could not build. He seemed to appreciate that he needed the best of the best craftsmen, materials and workers, but it still was not “good enough” for the Creator of all things. So, how do we deal with such things without becoming discouraged and wallowing in a sea of futility? The answer lies in the understanding that the work of our hands in not in vain when done for God’s glory. We give it our best, and give the blessings and honor to Him.

Notice how Solomon’s discourse at the Temple dedication began with “Blessed be the LORD God of Israel”. Many people looking on could have rightly expected Solomon to take credit, pass out accolades to the skill of the craftsmen, and commend others for their hard work. Instead, he acknowledged it is simply about Yahweh Elohim. The Temple was not a stand-alone building, but a culmination of centuries of faithfulness shown to Israel by Yahweh. In these few words, Solomon expressed the wondrous truth that the city, nation, throne and Temple were all an expression of the Presence … and the Ark was the expression of His covenant. He set the tone for what followed.

The king bowed down on his knees. Imagine the effect of that visual on the people. A king bows to no man, or else he is humiliated. Now the king who accepts tribute and honor from kings and queens from around the world willingly bows before Elohim. Solomon prays out the promises of God. What a lesson for us. Our prayers should reflect the things God has shared with us. He has promised provision, and so we ask for daily bread. He has promised permanence, and so we ask for the courage to be faithful. He has promised forgiveness, and so we confess our sins and ask for His grace. May we have the humility to never forget to whom we pray.

Yahweh responded with fire. Not an angry fire of judgment, but the powerful fire of acceptance. The sacrifices were consumed and the fire Yahweh commanded to be perpetuated by the priests was lit. God blessed all of this with the presence of His glory. It was not the skill of the craftsmen, the preciousness of the metals or the hard work that took years that mattered. Solomon knew what we should know. It is all about the God that we are honoring with the skills, money and labor we offer. Truly, this is the divine concept of offering our lives as a living sacrifice.

The human side of us strives to compare ourselves with other people. Competition is good for us, and often brings out the best in us. We are not in competition with each other when it comes to honoring God. Neither are we in competition with God. From the lowliest of servants to the most powerful of kings, our lives are to be homage to His majesty. El Shaddai spoke to Solomon and renewed His promises. It should be no surprise, because God is faithful. All we can do is to say with our lives, “Blessed be the LORD”.

Consider His nature.  Consider His ways.  Strive to love Him more!