1. "To compare: Solomon's temple was built by David's son, Solomon. (Vs. 1) The  temple of Christ (the church) was built by the Lord Jesus Christ. (Heb. 3:3-6) "

2. "Solomon's temple was built with gold, silver and precious stones.(Vs. 4-7)  (1  Chron. 29:3-8) The church is built with the redeemed lives of those purchased by  the cost of Christ's precious blood. (1 Pet. 1:18-19; 2:5) "

3. Solomon's temple stood on Mt. Moriah (Vs. 1) The church stands on the Rock  of Jesus' divinity and sacrificial death. (Matt. 16:18; Eph. 2:20) 

4. Think of how the temple was built, so carefully, with such love and   extravagance, and in such great detail. Then praise God for the life, death, and  resurrection of Jesus Christ which redeems sinners who repent and turn to Him.  Jesus fulfilled all of the sacrifices that took place in the temple. See Heb. 9:1;  10:18) and of whose temple we are!

1. "There was a lot of physical labor in sacrificing the animals, and cleaning up  afterwards. Each item was used for this, and had to be made of the finest metals,  etc. Temple worship was very carefully done according to Jewish law. 

 Let us consider how we can give God glory in His Temple, which is us, if we are  His redeemed."

1. When the trumpeters and singers became as one, making one sound to be  heard as praising and thanking the Lord what took place? (Vs. 13-14) In  corporate worship, eyes and hearts are to be drawn to God alone. When this is  done, He shows up! There is power in unity of praise! Let us take time to close  our eyes and concentrate on Him, offering praise and worship today. The next  time we are in corporate worship let us pray for unity, for all to become one,  making one sound as we praise and thank Him. 

Thursday, 2 Chronicles, Chapter 6

1. When Solomon stood before the altar of the Lord, he spread out his hands and  prayed. (Vs. 12) An open hand meant peace and submission to God. Let us do  the same, praying always in submission to a Holy and Just God. 

2. Solomon built the temple so that God could live among His people. Therefore   his prayer petitions regarded situations that would concern Israel in the future.   (Sin, war, enemies, forgiveness, drought, pestilence, and so on) Each petition was  followed by a plea that God would hear Israel's prayers and answer. (Vs. 12-42)  God now lives in our hearts and if we seek Him He is instantly with us. The minute  we lay our choicest gifts upon the altar His Holy Fire falls! When we make  room   for Him He comes and fills! Make room for Him today!

1. The visible manifestation of the Lord's presence and splendor showed up! (Vs.  1) What did the Israelites do when this happened? (Vs. 2-10) Just picture the joy   in their hearts and the significance of it all! A giant revival meeting where God   shows up strong! Glory!! Let us pray for this to happen right where we are!

2. This is a powerful statement by God in a call to prayer. There are four    conditions for revival and restoration.  (Vs. 14) Let us identify with the sins of our   nation as if they are our own, and repent and humble ourselves. Seek God's face  to restore His blessings and then believe with all our heart that He will. 

 "Solomon's marriage to Pharaoh's daughter was not of God. She did not serve   the God of Israel. (Vs 11) This marriage shows that he failed to submit every area  of his life to God. Therefore he left an area open to Satan. 

  He may have been sensitive to having an idol worshiper in a place where the  holy Ark of God was housed. Or there may have been criticism from  worshipers who would be offended by a pagan queen, so she had to have her   own place to live. Let us be so careful to place ourselves in God's will, and not open any doors to Satan. If there has been a door opened, ask for forgiveness  now!"