April 17, 2024

The temple was complete and ready to receive the Ark of the Covenant and all the ceremonial vessels, so Solomon had them bring it out of Zion, the City of David, into the temple. According to my commentary, the Ark wasn't brought up until a year after the temple was finished, which happened to be a jubilee year. All the people gathered for a great feast and the Ark's dedication to the Lord. They sacrificed an untold number of sheep and oxen and placed the Ark under the cherubim's wings. At that point, the only thing in the Ark was the two stone tablets. What happened to Aaron's rod and the pot of manna? Did the person die when they touched the Ark to take them out? They may have been dumped out or removed when the Philistines had it. Whatever the case, they were not in the Ark when the temple was dedicated. 

Solomon blessed the Lord and prayed a prayer of dedication. Have you ever wondered why Daniel prayed toward the temple when he was in captivity? He did that because Solomon prayed that God would hear their prayers if they would look toward the temple when they prayed; it came from this prayer. 

That thine eyes may be open toward this house night and day, even toward the place of which thou hast said, My name shall be there: that thou mayest hearken unto the prayer which thy servant shall make toward this place. 1 Kings 8:29

Solomon blessed the people and made an offering of peace to the Lord. Because there were so many sacrifices, the altar wasn't big enough to hold them all, so Solomon used the court. 

My prayers seem so inadequate compared to how Solomon honored God. When you read all they did for Him, what we do for him on a daily basis is so insignificant. We must remember that Jesus is enough, but still, we should do better in our praise and worship. Love God with all your heart, soul, and mind. Give Him the respect He deserves.