Click to read 1 Kings 7
Synopsis
After completing the construction of the temple, Solomon built his palace. The palace was bigger than the temple, not because Solomon was vain, but the palace was also a civic place where his courts and government were held. This chapter also recorded that Solomon spent time and got the best people to furnish the temple according to God's elaborate instruction. The description of the interior furnishing showed how elaborate the temple was.
Major verses
V13-14 - Huram was the best artisan that the nation could offer. He was highly skilled and was tasked by Solomon to do all the bronze work within the temple. Verses 40 to 45 recorded all the items Huram delivered.
What I learn
Solomon chose the best to build the temple for God; the best workmen, the best stones, the best woods. He did this out of reverence for the Lord. Similarly, when we serve Him, we must also bring out the best in us.
V15-39 - As elaborate as the designs and the workmanship were for building the temple and the furnishings, none of these products can satisfy God without the right attitude of the hearts of the producers, that is, Solomon, Huram and the other workers. The reverence and worship of God extended to the concentration and efforts exhibited by them.
What I learn
God demands our total reverence and attention. Our obedience to Him is a sure and good start. Just as Solomon and the workmen built the temple to the exact specification given by God, we must also follow His instructions to us to the dot. Our obedience to Him delights our Heavenly Father.
Summary
The temple was finally completed. David's and Solomon's desires to honor God were realized. But God was delighted in them, not because of the temple, but for their desires to honor Him.
Up next ...
1 Kings 8 tells about the dedication of the temple. Let's learn together on 10th Dec.
Solomon took 7 years to complete the Temple but 13 years to do his. The opening sentence in 1 Kings 7 has a "however" when referring to this disparity. One of his wives, Pharoah's daughter, also had a palace built for her the size of the Hall of Justice. It is recorded he built his palace in similar design - no mention of size. Bigger, most probably.
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