You Are That Temple

Daily Reading: 1 Kings 8

Scripture Focus: That all the peoples of the earth may know that the Lord is God; there is no other. (1 Kings 8:60)

Devotional Thought: In 1 Kings 8, Solomon dedicates the temple he built for the Lord. It is a grand proceeding of a vast assembly celebrating the majestic temple, with sacrifices beyond number.

Look at Solomon’s blessing in verses 56-61. He praises God for keeping all his promises, and he entreats God to help keep the people’s hearts turned towards God. This is a natural, valid, and vital request. In verses 22-53, Solomon runs through a laundry list of sins the people will commit. And sure enough, they do. But, Solomon, being wise, asks God’s forgiveness, “if” the people will turn their hearts back to God. In fact, Solomon’s prayer doesn’t ask God to forgive, but makes several statements that God will forgive, if we honor the “if” clause.

But, my biggest take away from chapter 8, is reverence for the temple. The temple is so important to God that he calls it his own. In fact, he fills the temple with his glory (verses 10-11). The filling is so visible that the priests are not able to complete their service within it. How awesome!

It’s elementary, but sometimes I need to remind myself of what the temple really is. In the words of the Apostle Paul, "You are that temple" (1 Corinthians 3.17).

John Wade

Prayer: Thank you, Lord Jesus, for building me - a living stone - into the temple of God, which is the Church. Help me to honor you and your body in my words and actions. Amen.

Psalm of the Day: Psalm 119.57-64

57 The Lord is my portion;

I promise to keep your words.

58 I entreat your favor with all my heart;

be gracious to me according to your promise.

59 When I think on my ways,

I turn my feet to your testimonies;

60 I hasten and do not delay

to keep your commandments.

61 Though the cords of the wicked ensnare me,

I do not forget your law.

62 At midnight I rise to praise you,

because of your righteous rules.

63 I am a companion of all who fear you,

of those who keep your precepts.

64 The earth, O Lord, is full of your steadfast love;

teach me your statutes!