Day 163 – 1 Kings 7, 2 Chronicles 4

Talking Points

• Solomon finishes his own impressive house. It is also made of costly stones and ornate decorations. He finishes the temple complex and has it furnished.
• The Bible records the account of two massive, impressive pillars on the porch of the temple. They are made of bronze and are intricately detailed. In an intriguing event, the pillars are given names. Jachin means “he establishes.” Boaz means “in him is strength.” Amazing that even the pillars of the porch bear testimony to the greatness of God. In Psalm 24 there are recorded ancient doors and gates that would “lift up their heads” to see the glory of the passing king (Psalm 24:7). We can add these great pillars to the list of things that must praise the Lord!

Thoughts

Do you ever feel like somebody else has a better position to serve the Lord than you do? Think about today’s account. What if you weren’t a Levite, commissioned as a priest, or even a servant in the temple? What if you weren’t King David? Or his son, Solomon? Does your “normal” state in life limit your ability to marvelously glorify God? Do you ever feel it might?

Enter Hiram. The Bible says he is from the tribe of Naphtali, not Levi or Judah. The Bible says he comes from Tyre, not the capital city of Jerusalem. He is the son of a widow, his father having died. Hiram is a metal worker. A laborer. And, yet, the God’s Word records this man as a skilled artisan filled with “wisdom and understanding” in his craft (1 Kings 7:14). Hiram used his skill to glorify God. He fashioned engravings, bowls, and tables that brought elegant stateliness to the decor of the temple. He built bronze pillars that testified to God’s greatness. His life glorified God!

Today, may we understand God built us to bring much glory to Him. Today, may we know we hold as much potential as any person to declare the glory of God! May we faithfully endeavor to do so!