DECEMBER 13, 1 Kings 8:1-11

The months of preparation and construction of the temple led to this point. It was time for the Ark of the Covenant to be brought to its resting place, the finished temple. What did the Ark of the Covenant represent?

It represented God’s presence with Israel. Whenever the Israelites saw the Ark in their midst, and the pillars of cloud and fire leading them, they knew that God was with them. The priests carried the Ark by long poles, known as staves, on their shoulders and went before Israel as they travelled. When they rested, the Ark was placed in the most holy place of the tabernacle, in the centre of the whole camp.

God’s presence was at the centre of Israel’s worship, service, and attention. The cloud which had led Israel throughout her travels now filled the house of the LORD. What an amazing and glorious sight!

Is God at the centre of your life? This means that in your daily life, you gladly desire to obey Him and to be led by His Word. Why? Remember that the LORD has done great things for you, especially His work of salvation in your life. Just as God was faithful to lead Israel all the way, He is also faithful to lead and guide you through life. When God is at the centre of your life, He is pleased to fill you with His presence and others will see Him through your life.

Thought: It is better to have the presence of God than the company of the world.

Prayer: Father in heaven, draw me nearer to You and let me have a closer walk with You. Help me to do my Quiet Time daily. Help me to lead a God-centred life that will glorify Your name. That is hard for me because I still misbehave or get angry for the wrong reason. So please help me. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.