Then the cloud covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle. And Moses was not able to enter the tent of meeting because the cloud settled on it, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle. – Exodus 40:34-35

Chapters 7 and 8 highlight the completion of Solomon’s house and, most importantly, the completion of the LORD’s house. Solomon oversees both the construction and the grand dedication, at which the LORD makes his satisfaction evident.

As at the end of Exodus, the author of Kings weaves a rich tapestry of detail and emotion. My comments will be brief, so you can drink it in. Pay attention to the variety of allusions to that long ago day in the Wilderness of Sinai: the procurement of raw materials, the attention to each element, the offerings, the Ark of the Covenant, and the glory of the LORD. Listen as Solomon speaks to Israel words of worship, exhortation, and benediction as no leader has since the days of Moses.

This sense that a new age is dawning is reflected in the LORD’s response to Solomon. As soon as Solomon had finished building the house of the LORD, the LORD reaffirms His covenant with David’s house: As for you, if you will walk before Me, as David your father walked…then I will establish your royal throne over Israel forever…

Our verse for this week is Ephesians 2:8-9: For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.

1 Kings 7 through 9. Now let’s read it!

Day 132 Guided Podcast