I Kings 8:17

Ken McKenzie 

And it was in the heart of David my father to build an house for the Lord God of Israel.

Solomon was reportedly the wisest man ever to live. Though he was wise in many ways, his statecraft left much to be desired. He made alliances with neighboring countries which introduced idolatry into God's chosen kingdom and eventually brought about the demise of Israel.

In this verse, Solomon remembers the dream of his father, King David, to build a house for God. It was a dream which was to be deferred until the reign of Solomon, but finally realized in the glorious Temple which was considered to be one of the most magnificent houses of worship ever built.

You and I are also in the building business, if you stop and think about it. Each day we are called to answer God's call to build a house for Him. Some days we do well with that task; we adorn the walls of our souls with devotion, faith, hope and praise.   Other days, we smash the foundations with our self-centeredness, greed, anger and guilt.   One thing is for sure: Each day brings its own change-order in the construction of God's house in our hearts.

Consider today what kind of builder you will be for the Kingdom of God. Will you build up or tear down?   Be sure to consult the Architect daily before you do anything!

Prayer: Holy God, I praise you for this day. Help me to make decisions, perform deeds, and share words which will build my soul and Your Kingdom. Keep me from doing damage to the bedrock of Your holy Gospel, that all of our spiritual houses may be kept secure and holy. Amen.