Solomon may have been ruler of a powerful nation, with a fabulous palace for himself and this new, magnificent temple for the Lord, but, as this prayer shows, he knew that his position was one of submission to the Almighty God.

Solomon stood before the altar to pray, but he lifted his hands towards the sky. He knew that although he was king, he was not Lord. He also knew that although he was surrounded by the symbols of God’s presence, the Lord could not be kept in the Ark or in the temple. The king had a right understanding of his position in relation to the Lord.

The Lord cannot be contained in human buildings, or in human plans or programmes. Although Solomon built his temple and God blessed it with his presence, and we in our churches today prepare our services and evangelistic programmes and other plans, and God sometimes blesses them with his presence, we must, like Solomon, remember our right relationship with God.

He is far beyond, far above and far outside of our human understanding, yet even though our efforts are weak, if our hearts are turned towards him, we can receive his blessing on the offerings we bring to him. This is part of God’s love, that he invites us to join with him in the purposes of his Kingdom – the sovereign Lord who created all things, chooses to include his beloved children in his plans.

What a privilege it is to answer the call of God!

next devotional >>

 

 

NEWBOLD COMMUNITY CHURCH