A house of prayer

2 Chronicles 6:12-21

As Solomon stood before the altar of the Lord, on the six-foot three-inch tall brass platform he built in the temple, he then stretched forth his hands toward heaven, in the midst of all the congregation of Israel, and began to bless the name of the Lord. This is a great example of how any service where Saints are gathered, should begin. When God is reverenced at the beginning of a thing, He’s more than likely to control the outcome of it as well.

In this text, king Solomon took time to offer a prayer of dedication to God, for remembering the petitions of his father, David, and to request that God keep watch over the house he built, in the same way He watched continually over the house of David. King Solomon was free to express his thoughts, and feelings to God, because his life was lived in obedience, and reverence to the name of the Lord. When we live to please God, we can ask anything of Him, and He’ll respond, because our requests will never be outside of His will. God blesses His people, not for show, but so that His name can be amplified, and His power magnified in the eyes of all men.

I’m convinced that those who witnessed the temple of God, and all its splendor, were amazed, and stood in awe at all the wonderful fixin’s it displayed, but the temple wasn’t built for show alone. The temple was built, so that the glory of the Lord could resonate from a place of beauty, and majesty forever!

In this year of 2020, the same God of the past, reigns supreme still today, but does His glory, and majesty radiate from your temple, as it did from the temple king Solomon built? Do you present your body a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable unto God, every day? Check your temple daily, and make sure it’s suitable to house the glorious presence of God, our Father.

Walk in love,

Ell

Preparing to dedicate the temple

1 Kings 8:1-13

“I have surely built thee an house to dwell in, a settled place for thee to abide for ever” (vs. 13). Knowing that God is all holy, all righteous, all good, and perfect, what does it take to build a place where His presence can dwell forever? God hates sin, shuns evil, and despises the proud and liars, but is it possible for God to freely inhabit the presence of frail, and feeble men? “…for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7b). When a man’s ways please the Lord, he positions himself to enjoy the full benefits of God’s divine love.

The Bible mentions how king David was a man after God’s own heart, but Solomon was a man of unparalleled wisdom, and God showed much favor to him during his reign. Solomon was obedient in following his father’s instructions on how the temple of God should be assembled, and upon its completion, God was very pleased. The great kings of the past thought it not robbery to use the finest materials, including gold, silver, and precious stones, while putting together the most fascinating building of their time. When the time of dedication had arrived, God allowed His very presence to fill the house, so that all could rest assured, He was pleased with their sacrifice.

Is God pleased with your self-sacrifice, until He can freely abide in your heart forever? Do you seek first His kingdom, and righteousness, in place of worldly pleasures? In the same way God was comfortable allowing His presence to flow freely in the great temple, live in such a way, that the same cloud of glory which touched the hearts of every man in the temple, can live inside of you forever.

Walk in love,

Ell

All temple furnishings completed

2 Chronicles 4:19-5:1

Detail! Detail! Detail! The body of Christ is joined in union to a God who is keen on doing things specific, and according to detail. This is evident in everything our eyes see on a daily basis. The earth, stars, moon, and sun, were all set in particular places, so they could function properly, and be effective continually. Even the gravity that holds all things together, was designed according to detail, so that all things would remain in their aligned positions. Birds were made specific, so they could inhabit their predestined atmosphere, without issue. Fish were made in such a way, to inhabit aquatic areas, beasts were designed to effectively roam the lands while being sustained in all types of weather, and humans were made beautifully, and capable of sustaining themselves in all manner of environments. Our eyes were uniquely designed to see an image, and automatically adjust, to get the best view (even those who require a little help 🤓). In addition, the human eye can differentiate approximately ten million different colors. That is so cool! Our skin has unique details as well, including five different types of receptors that respond to pain and touch. Our entire body is so detailed, until it would take years to break down the importance, and uniqueness of all its parts.

God took His time, and made us great, and the likeness we share with Him, can be seen in many of the things we do as well. A prime example of our connection with God’s attention to detail, is found in our text. I’ve made mention of the temple king David, and Solomon, planned to build for God in previous lessons, and throughout the building process, David, and his son, were detailed in literally every part of the temple construction. I won’t list those things again, but feel free to check out the text in your free time.

I can say with absolute certainty, you’ve had experiences in your life where details were a major factor to you. Whether you planned for a wedding 💍, funeral 🙁, picnic 🍉, or even getting dressed for school 📚 or work 💼, details are what make you unique. Take a moment, and examine your wonderfully made body, then give God a head nod of appreciation, for making you “one of a kind”!

Walk in love,

Ell

Priests praise God with music

2 Chronicles 5:11-14

Out of all the tests and trials life throws at you, that often leave you depressed, what are some things that actually make you smile? Are you fond of nature, and enjoy the changing seasons, with all the beauty they bring? Do you find yourself occasionally basking in the beauty of God’s creation, as I usually do? I oftentimes set aside moments to pause, close my eyes, tilt my head back, inhale, exhale, then open my eyes to see the vast and majestic sky-filled wonders of God’s creation. If nature doesn’t inspire you, then do you find pleasure in animals, whether they be on land, or beneath the deep blue seas? From the birds that inhabit the heavens, to the smallest critters that scurry on land, the earth is littered with all types of great and small unique creatures. For those who are parents, how does it make you feel, when your children tell you they love you? Do you privately pat yourself on the back, when you realize that you endured the struggles that came along with teaching, and raising your children to be respectful, obedient, and well-mannered individuals? It does the heart of any parent or guardian good to see a child they raised, grow up to be a mature and respectful adult. In a world where sin abounds, and men often favor the negative over the positive, there remains opportunities where we can smile, in the midst of it all.

After considering what things bring pleasure to your life, have you ever thought about what makes God smile? We learn in the book of Proverbs, the things the Lord hates, but knowing what He loves can benefit our lives as well. God literally inhabits the praises of His people. In other words, when we offer praise to God, He directs His full attention toward all who offer up praise in His name. In the same way we get lost in the music that flows through our headphones, I can imagine God sitting with His feet relaxed, while vibing to the sounds of our praise and worship. God does listen when we reach out to Him, but our approach is what makes the difference. Let that marinate for a moment. Imagine coming to a parent, always crying and complaining about situations, how would you expect them to respond? On the flip side, imagine coming to them with words of appreciation, and gratitude, then presenting that same issue, how then, would you expect them to respond?

God loves His people, even more so when they walk in obedience to His will. God smiles when we love our neighbors, as we love ourselves. He takes pleasure in our spiritual songs, and hymns, because they encourage, and remind us of the wondrous things He has done, and continues to do in our lives. Even in our text, when the priests praised God with singing and instruments, God filled the temple with His glory (in the form of a cloud). The glory of the Lord was so immense, until “the priests could not stand to minister by reason of the cloud…” (vs. 14). This may seem strange to some, as to how a cloud can distract men from praising God, but when a man gets a taste of who God really is, the only option is surrender, and simply soak it all in.

God is so good, that even reading the words from the pages of Scripture can bring inspiration to the readers. In the same way a parent smiles when witnessing their children doing good in their sight, make it a habit to consider those things that bring smiles to the face of our heavenly Father, then do them willingly, consistently, and wholeheartedly.

Walk in love,

Ell

Ark brought to the temple

2 Chronicles 5:2-7

When all the work that went into constructing God’s amazing temple was finally finished, king Solomon was then able to add the final piece, to amplify its magnificence. The ark of the covenant was brought up from Zion, and carried to its proper place, in the temple, by the Levite priests. The Levites were the only men allowed by God to carry the ark from place to place.

Along with the remarkable silver and gold pieces, fine linen, altar of brass, and molten sea that made God’s temple unique in many aspects, the ark of the Lord was indeed, the most relevant construct in the temple. As I read this passage of Scripture, I can’t help but place myself in this time, to try and picture, with my own eyes, the elegance and majesty of such an incredible building! I’ve had the pleasure of witnessing some very impressive buildings, including churches, in my lifetime, but none compare to what king David, and king Solomon were able to put together for the glory of God.

The temple of God was garnished with pure gold, overlaid with precious stones in various areas, adorned with golden cherubim, sculptures of oxen, golden lavers, candlesticks, tables, and basons of gold as well. Those are a few of the major decorations of the temple of God, but my words alone, can’t portray how beautiful this place actually was.

God takes great delight in nice things, but only when those things are intended to bring glory to His name. There’s not one thing man can do on his own (except make a choice; even then, he needs life to do that as well), so all things that are built, or constructed, should always be dedicated to God. “And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him“(Col 3:17 KJV).

Men build massive buildings, houses, and other things that leave some gazing in awe, but what’s the purpose of doing something great, and not having God’s approval for it? If you have the opportunity to contribute to a structure or building that’s being dedicated to God, do it willingly, and wholeheartedly, knowing that God is well-deserving of all good things.

Walk in love,

Ell

The Law is read at Booths Festival

Deuteronomy 31:9-13

Today is the last day of the year 2019, and mankind has come a long way, from the time of Moses, until now. During a time when the Word of God was written on stone and scrolls, and delivered to priests, who preserved and passed on the Word, men now have the convenience of enjoying God’s Word through apps, internet, and other technologically advanced ways.

God’s Word never loses value, however it’s obtained, but I stand on the fact that there’s something different about hearing God’s words in the presence of an actual person, that brings more light to the Bible, than what some gather through other methods. In the same way some learn better from sitting in a class, where the professor can teach and explain things, I tend to favor learning and gaining a greater respect for godliness in the presence of teachers, preachers, or any who expound upon the Word of God.

I mentioned in the previous text, how churches have become business models, and harbor more confusion, than order, but when God’s people come together, the central focal point should be His unadulterated Word. Men, women, and children alike, all require God’s Word, in order to grow, develop, and mature in the ways of holiness. Attempting to live on man’s wisdom alone, will lead one on an eventual path to destruction, but allowing the Bible to be a lamp unto your feet, and a light to guide your path, will always lead in the direction of good success.

Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God, so when the church gathers, everyone’s faith should mature, after hearing God’s Word be brought forth. When you attend church, or other religious gatherings, what’s the main focus while there? Do men come to show off their suits and expensive cars? Are the women competing to look like the next top model, rather than adorn themselves in modest apparel? Are the children being distracted with snacks and iPads, to keep them quiet during sermons? Everyone needs God’s Word, no matter their age, because the Bible can reach an adult, the same way it can change the heart of a child.

Walk in love,

Ell

An orderly worship service

1 Corinthians 14:26-33

As you watch a football game, you notice many players of varying size, strength, and ability, spread across the field. All members on a team have specific assignments, based on their skill set, physical ability, and level of importance. For example, rarely would you place a wide receiver in the position of the offensive lineman, because his physical frame, and strength would not prove sufficient enough to hold up against a 300lb defensive lineman. But, spread the receiver outside, and he’d be in a prime position to be an effective part of his team’s offense. When each player plays their own position effectively, there’s little room for error, but when pride and arrogance causes some to make their position more important than the rest of the team, it opens doors for all sorts of problems.

One thing that makes coaches proud is, when their team plays a clean game, where everyone put forth their best effort, and there were minimal penalties called during the game. In the same way a football team assembles together, to get on one accord before performing on the field of play, the body of believers are to take time often to gather together, in order to edify one another, and enjoy the presence of God amongst those of the same mind and spirit. The purpose of church is not to spend hours in a building, collecting multiple offerings, nor attempting to be the next “Star Search”, instead all who gather in the name of the Lord, should come with the intentions of learning, growing, and encouraging everyone in attendance.

When some take advantage of their gift, seeking to make themselves great among the saints, God shuns this behavior, and prefers that gifts be used only to edify, and not promote self. All members of the body of Christ are important, and no one should feel irrelevant, in comparison to another’s gift. Just as the quarterback and center play a major role on the field, the punter and kicker have roles of equal importance as well.

Walk in humility, and exercise your gift to bring honor to God. Shun all things evil, and conduct yourself in an orderly, and decent manner whenever you’re amongst fellow believers.

Wack in love,

Ell

Heavenly vision of the ark

Revelation 11:15-19

Witnessing the presence of God, first-hand, back in Bible times, must have been breathtaking experiences. From seeing God’s glory from a perpetual burning bush, and observing it, as God literally passed in front of Moses in another instance, nothing has yet to compare to the matchless glory the presence of God brings to any environment or atmosphere. Along with experiencing God’s presence, I’m also convinced that simply hearing His voice caused many to develop goosebumps as well.

In Scripture, God was also unique, as He allowed His presence to inhabit the form of pillars of a cloud, and of fire. Imagine watching your children walk to school with a beautiful cloud surrounding and protecting them from all manner of evil. It would appear strange today, yet still extremely effective. When I first began to study God’s Word, I found it hard to believe that His powerful, and awe-inspiring presence could actually reside in a feeble human heart, but as I grew and matured in the Word, I quickly realized, we can abide in God and His very Word can abide in us. This is evident during those moments when we feel a certain way about something particular. For example, there were times when I was about to make a decision concerning something, then I would immediately feel a presence come over me, nudging me to do the opposite of what I had originally intended to do. God may not appear in clouds, burning bushes, or even dreams, as He did in the past, but I believe we today, have it much better than they did in the past, because He lives inside of us.

Even as God’s presence was housed in the ark of the covenant in the Old Testament, and the original ark was seen in a vision by John in the New Testament, God’s presence is amazing wherever it abides! It’s time that you come to the realization, God is awesome, He lives in you, which in turn, makes you awesome! The very Creator of all things loved you enough to pattern you after Himself. If you think that’s something, you have the ability to house His very presence, and change atmospheres everywhere you go, just as He did through men in the past.

As you occupy until Christ returns, take advantage of all the opportunities God has presented you, to make His name great! Whether it be in the form of encouragement, or exercising any other gift, allow God’s presence to lead and guide all your actions, and “let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.” (Colossians 3:15-17)

Walk in love

Ell

David’s prayer of praise and thanksgiving

1 Chronicles 17:16-27

What are you thankful for, and how do you express your gratitude? Out of all the things you’ve been through in life, have you finally realized that your life actually has a purpose, or are you still confused whether or not your existence has any relevance in the earth. Believe it, or not, when God made you, He had intentions for you to do great things in this life. You were carefully constructed with gifts, talents, and special abilities, that would be revealed as you grow and mature in godliness. The closer you get to God, the easier it’ll become for you to recognize exactly what you were created to do. Take the life of David, for instance. As a boy, he was left to watch over his father’s sheep. Notice though, being a shepherd was no easy task, as there were many things to tend to, in order to keep the flock safe. From guarding against wild beasts, to feeding and caring for the needs of the flock, being a shepherd required courage, humility, patience, and a very strong will. David took pride in caring for his father’s sheep, but was unaware that God was only preparing him to become the shepherd of His chosen people, Israel.

In all that David did for God, he never allowed a moment to pass, without giving God praise, and thanks. Even in times of fear and great distress, David was confident that God was well able to deliver him from all his troubles, and was grateful for every answered prayer. Sharing like passions and desires as the Creator, David was deemed a man after God’s own heart. Although the great king David was far from perfect, he had mature faith that always kept him conscious of the fact that when God is first, all else will fall in place.

The body of Christ strives daily to fulfill God’s will on a consistent basis. Each individual effort is key in maintaining a healthy unit of believers, especially during these evil times. Whatever your calling is, take pride in doing it well, and thank God daily, for giving you the strength, and wisdom you need to stand strong in the faith. Give God continual praise for daily loading you with benefits as well. Everyday you wake up, inhale, then exhale, open your sleepy eyes, sit up gracefully, turn and place your feet on the floor, then arise on your own strength, is more than enough blessing to give God thanks and praise for.

Try to spend more time acknowledging what God is doing in your life, rather than focusing on the problems that cause you to worry and stress. Follow the example of king David, and reverence Him, because “For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised: he also is to be feared above all gods. For all the gods of the people are idols: but the Lord the heavens. Glory and honour are in his presence; strength and gladness are in his place. Give unto the Lord, ye kindreds of the people, give unto the Lord glory and strength. Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come before him: worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness. Fear before him, all the earth: the world also shall be stable, that it be not moved. Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice: and let men say among the nations, The Lord reigneth. Let the sea roar, and the fulness thereof: let the fields rejoice, and all that is therein. Then shall the trees of the wood sing out at the presence of the Lord, because he cometh to judge the earth. O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever.” (1 Chronicles 16:25-34)

Walk in love,

Ell

David orients builders about the temple construction

1 Chronicles 22:14-19

When God created man, He made him good, and very good. After the image of God, and in His likeness, was man made. Based on the evidence in Scripture, it’s hinted that man was originally created to live forever, in the presence of God, but when satan caused man to sin, the man, woman, and serpent, were all cursed in the earth, introducing elements of life man and woman were not intended to partake of. The apparent curse of the woman continues today, as the average female is reminded monthly of Eve’s big mistake, but unlike the woman, who’s punishment came from within the body, the man was forced into hard labor, until he returns to the dust of the earth. God intended for life to be lived carefree, and in total submission to His way, but things took a turn for the worse, when God’s greatest creation willingly chose to do the opposite of what He commanded.

From the days of Adam until now, men continue to endure hard labor, in order to maintain balanced lifestyles. Our days are filled with constant hardships, sufferings and trials, but we must endure, so that we can support ourselves, and family consistently. Although work can become a hassle, proper planning, and preparation can help alleviate the stress work commonly produces. For example, I’m an engineer, and when I don’t have the proper tools and supplies necessary to complete a job, it causes lots of stress, but when all things are in supply, and readily available, it makes the day better for myself, and all those who’s issues and concerns I am able to resolve.

King David also understood how important it was to plan properly before starting a job. It’s estimated that David invested over 3 billion dollars worth of supplies and resources to build the temple of God. More than likely, majority of what David gathered came from years of accumulating spoils of war, and other methods. More than obtaining the necessary supplies required to complete the temple, David was also aware of the fact that God needed to be at the forefront of one’s motivation, to ensure that all work would be done decent, and in order.

After gathering the abundance of supplies, David encouraged Solomon to build God’s temple, and use the resources he accumulated for him, then add to them accordingly. David also mentioned to his son, “Only the Lord give thee wisdom and understanding, and give thee charge concerning Israel, that thou mayest keep the law of the Lord thy God. Then shalt thou prosper, if thou takest heed to fulfil the statutes and judgments which the Lord charged Moses with concerning Israel: be strong, and of good courage; dread not, nor be dismayed” (vs. 12-13). In the same way God encourages His people, by reassuring their victory through the Word, and multiple examples of men and women in Scripture who were faithful until the end, David made Solomon even more confident in fulfilling his assignment, by mentioning the innumerable amount of skilled workers ready to assist at a moment’s notice. How encouraging it is, to be tasked with an extremely challenging assignment, but having an army of helpers standing at the ready to offer assistance! David literally went “all out” to ensure that his son had everything he needed to make God’s temple magnificent!

As you continue to walk in obedience to God, be sure to take advantage of all opportunities to edify your brothers, and sisters in Christ. There will be times, when you’ll meet some who have dreams and desires, but lack the resources to bring them to pass. But, you can be the one to make a difference in the life of those who seek to do great things, and may need a little push to get started. You may not have the wealth and material resources to assist, but your words of edification, and encouragement can be just what someone needs to be great in the kingdom of God.

Walk in love,

Ell