written by Rusty Knight

In this passage, we’re told some of the initial particulars of the temple, such as the height, width and length of the sanctuary. The interesting part of this passage to me is in verse 11. God speaks to Solomon as almost a reminder to let Solomon and Israel know that even though they’re building the Lord’s temple, they still need to be obedient to God and abide by ALL his regulations. The Lord is also reaffirming to Solomon and Israel that he would not abandon them but would fulfill the promise he made to his father David.

I think as Christians, we often have the appearance of doing all the right things, such as going to church, going to Bible studies, giving to charities etc. etc. Now don’t get me wrong, those are positive and important things, but doing such things doesn’t make us “okay” in life and exempt from God’s internal inspection of our hearts. God reminded Solomon that even though they were building the temple and being obedient in that regard, he needed to be mindful and obedient of all of His regulations and decrees. On the flip side of this interaction is the notion that God would not abandon his people and would fulfill the promise he made to David, Solomon’s father. Despite Israel’s rough past, repeatedly turning their backs on God, God was still present and true to his promise not to abandon them. I’m challenged and encouraged by this interaction to know that: A) It is extremely important for us to be obedient to Christ and how he desires us to live our lives in all areas, not just some of them; and B) God will never leave or abandon us.

Your fellow traveler,
Rusty