Read: 1 Kings 8:1-13
The priests could not stand to minister because of the cloud, for the glory of the LORD filled the house of the LORD. (v. 11)
Imagine the president asks you to organize a reception for an important foreign dignitary. You compose the guest list, plan the menu, and pay attention to every last detail. But the night of the event—the guest of honor never shows! Despite your hard work and all your planning, the reception could only be a failure.
Solomon has finished building a beautiful temple for the great God of the universe. He dedicates it with great ceremony, inviting the leaders to join him as the priests bring the ark of the covenant to the inner sanctuary of the temple. But will the Lord honor this place as he did the tabernacle—with the cloud of glory that marked his presence? He does, indeed! His glory fills the temple so that even the priests are forced to leave, unable to minister in his presence. Solomon now knows that the Lord has accepted the temple as his house of worship.
We can build beautiful places of worship—but if God’s Spirit isn’t there, it’s all meaningless! When glorifying God is our highest motivation, we will be sensitive to his Spirit, and to his leading. All other agendas must be put aside. As church leaders and members, let’s desire to have God’s Spirit fill our churches to God’s glory. May he always be present in our midst! —Laura N. Sweet
As you pray, ask God to bless your church as together you seek to glorify him.
About the Author
Laura N. Sweet is a wife, mother, grandmother, and former Christian schoolteacher from Midland, Michigan. She writes devotional material for both adults and children, and her work has appeared in more than a dozen publications.
