God is worthy of our Best

Read 2 Chronicles 3-5.

The location of the Temple was Mount Moriah.  This is one of the most sacred spots on earth.  It was the very spot that David purchased from Ornan in 1 Chronicles 21 and worshiped there.  A thousand years before, Abraham walked up this same mount to sacrifice Isaac in Genesis 22.

Today, it is known as the Temple Mount where the Moslem Dome of the Rock stands.  When Israel constructs its future Temple, according to Biblical prophecy, it will be on this site (Daniel 9, Revelation 11).  Obviously, some major events will need to take place first in order for the Jews to regain the use of that property.

The details of the construction and items inside were nothing short of magnificent.   It was ornate with carved woodwork.  The pure gold coverings and burnished bronze furnishings made it glisten.  Expensive?  Yes.  Opulent?  Yes. Many would consider this unnecessary and a waste of money that could have been better used to meet other needs.  But keep in mind that God gave King David these instructions.  God provided the resources to complete what He had ordered.  In chapter 2, Solomon stated that the Temple would be great because God is greater that all gods.  They worshiped the LORD with the best because He is worthy.

When the Ark was in place, the musicians began to praise the LORD: "For he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever."  At that, God filled the place with His visible presence and stopped the service!

Questions for all of us:

1. Do we worship God and live for Him with a "just enough to get by" attitude?  Or, do we worship and live for Him with the best we have to offer?

2. When was the last time the presence of God was so strong you had to stop what you were doing and enjoy the moment?