1 Kings 7 [The Message]

Symmetry definition: the quality of being made up of exactly similar parts facing each other or around an axis.

Notably, there was a strong sense of symmetry in Solomon’s Temple. What was done to one side was mirrored on the other. To the observer, the symmetry and order was restful and calming. When you see something that is off balance or not centered, you experience unease.

Unrest and unease are generally symptoms of a life that’s not right with God. (The way of a transgressor is hard. Pr. 13:15) God gives peace to those whose sin is forgiven. For them, all is made right. Life has balance and symmetry.

Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. [Ps. 16:11]

Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it. [Ps. 34:14]

1 Kings 6 [The Message]

In the construction of Solomon’s Temple and his personal residence, no expense was spared. Only the finest was acceptable. Gold overlayment, cedar wood from Lebanon, artistic work from masters, and time taken to do it right … these factors composed the ultimate in human construction standards. He was known all over the world for his work.

As New Testament Christians, we put much less importance on the physical construction of buildings of worship. They are nothing more than sheep-sheds. The true value is the price Christ paid with His Blood for our redemption. [Acts 20:28] The gold we seek is the streets of gold in heaven.

1 Kings 4-6 [The Message]

Note: This post is not intended to be critical in any way of the decibel level of praise services.

As Solomon’s temple was being constructed, there was not even the sound of a hammer in its assembly. The components were quarried and cut elsewhere so that a quiet reverence could be experienced at its site. True worship focuses on humility and brokenness rather than aggressive physical demonstration.

Yes, there is a time and a place for being loud for God. I can produce much scripture to support this. Sing unto him a new song; play skillfully with a loud noise. [Ps. 33:3] But there is also a very significant atmosphere of reverential awe that permeates the inner courts of holy worship. On this point it’s “better felt than tell’t.”

1 Kings 2, 3 [The Message]

In his paraphrase of the Bible, Eugene Peterson describes wisdom as being a “God-listening heart.” I love that. A classic definition of wisdom is “Insight into the true nature of things.” This is what Solomon requested of the Lord when God asked him what He could grant him. Solomon’s request pleased the Lord, so with wisdom God also included EVERYTHING ELSE.

As I pray daily for my children and their children, this seems to be my most frequent request … “Give them wisdom.” If God can closely watch their every step and always be speaking to them, “THIS is the best way. Walk in it.” … then THAT’S what I truly want for them. In fact, parents would be wise to begin cultivating this method within their children – when they need answers to life’s questions, pause and pray WITH them and ask them what they hear God saying to them. This is priesthood training.

1 Kings 1 [The Message]

Scripture indicates that David DID NOT bring correction to his son Adonijah as he grew up. Here was a young man who felt he should be the one to succeed David as king. He promoted himself and arranged a pseudo-crowning while David was old and weak. Long story short, Nathan the Prophet and the king’s true inner-core pleaded with David to follow through on his promise that Solomon would be the new king. So it was … Solomon was anointed the true king.

Adonijah did not really know who he was. His self-esteem was skewed because of his upbringing. He didn’t know it was wrong to promote yourself, among many other indications of a man who felt entitled.

Wholesome chastisement is a blessing to children. When they cross the line, their loving parent is the one who restores a humble, accurate view of life.

2 Sam. 24 [The Message]

This is a profound phrase. It is in reference to David’s occasion of counting Israel so he could have a carnal estimate of their military power He had obviously forgotten his MO when he faced Goliath. (He trusted in the Lord’s Name rather than carnal weapons)

God doesn’t need our better ideas. He doesn’t need our abilities, or physical strength, or influence, or intelligence. He DOES need our trust.

Statistics are not inherently bad. When they become more important than trust, they displace God’s power and become an idol.

To pray is better than to count.

2 Sam. 20-24 [The Message]

As David composed his last Psalm, he reviewed his life; it’s challenges, it’s victories, it’s rewards. It seems that he could never get away from conflict and war of some kind. God faithfully protected and provided for him, but it seems he never completely rested from his problems.

Life is like that. We have growth and maturation, but there’s always a challenge ahead. We no sooner overcome one obstacle but that another one crops up, different in nature. It requires a life-long maintenance of seeking God’s strength and guidance. That’s one big reason why we need to be faithful to our devotions and our church.

“You should not stay away from the church meetings, as some are doing, but you should meet together and encourage each other. Do this even more as you see the day coming.” [Heb. 10:25 NCV]

2 Sam. 19 [The Message]

Sad to say, some people only kiss up to you when you are THE MAN… er, the person in authority. Israel brought David back to Jerusalem to take his place as king again since Absalom was dead. Even ol’ Shimei, the descendant of Saul who cursed him every step of his way as he fled for his life, even he was all “nicey-nicey” as David returned. Some people are like that. They are two-faced. They flatter you when you are in charge, but treat you like dung as soon as you leave power.

I have personally experienced this. Before I retired as Headmaster of Trinity Christian School, certain people could really “kiss up” and make me feel like they were my best friend. Then, when I was no longer the one in charge, they changed. It sort of hurts. They really weren’t your friend for who you are. They just wanted a perceived advantage for being close to you.

Then there are the REAL people who treat you the same and show their true colors. It’s as if you have a whole new appreciation for the quality and integrity of these good people. You REALLY have a friend.

2 Sam. 17, 18 [The Message]

David loved his son Absalom in spite of the young man’s rebellion. Yes, the younger man was trying to kill his father, yet David’s heart toward his offspring was forgiving and merciful. At the news of the young man’s death, David expressed great grief and lament.

Our Heavenly Father likewise has eternal love and mercy toward us, His wayward children. Regardless of our sin, His love (for now) is extended to us through His Son, Christ Jesus. Christ’s blood forgives us of all sin. Earthly fathers who show similar love to their children give us a glimpse of God’s love.

2 Sam. 15, 16 [The Message]

David was fleeing Jerusalem for his life. His rebellious son Absalom was effectively returning to the city to upend David and sit on Israel’s throne. This crushing experience for David was even heightened by the railing accusations and contempt being hurled at him by Shimei, one of Saul’s relatives. The man followed David as he fled his home, cursing and throwing stones at him. For a man who was the king, this had to be tough to endure. Yet, David permitted it and declared, “My own son is trying to kill me! Why shouldn’t this man from the tribe of Benjamin want me dead even more? Let him curse all he wants. Maybe the Lord did tell him to curse me.”

Whether or not God sent him, God allowed it. If David had any confidence in himself, this must have been extremely humbling. At this point, David had only his trust in God to sustain him.

Actually, that’s all we really need to survive in life.