Observation: The dedication of the temple includes this detail ... the actual size and extent of Israel as secured by David. The brook of Egypt was an understood brook south of the Negev. However, "the entrance of Hamath" is a little confusing, however it is most likely a point halfway between the cities of Damascus and Hamath. The modern village of Laboueh is probably the location. This northern border of Israel is significantly north, well into Lebanon. It brings places like Damascus and modern-day Beirut well within the land of Israel.
Solomon has just prayed that, when Israel someday falls away from the Lord, that they will be restored when their hearts return to Yahweh. It is a prayer very similar to what Moses prayed. However, the establishment of Israeli kings occurred after the period of the judges, where we did see this turning away, and how bad it had become. David has done more than expanded Israel to significant size; he has strengthened the faith of the nation throughout that entire expansion. The people are again a nation of priests, set apart to demonstrate the Lord to the world, and at this moment they have significant size, abundance, and peace.
The Lord promised Israel all these things if they would obey his word, and they have received it in full. Like Moses, Solomon knows it won't last, but they have obeyed now, and they have received the promises now at this time.
Application: I am still unclear about God's promises in my life. I do see all that he does - all the way he has blessed me - and I am so very grateful for all of that. However, I am not sure about other promises.
Then again, I am also unclear about the purpose and mission of my life. I fully understand how I am to behave and honor the Lord ... and I am fully aware I fail at that too often. I also fully understand my salvation is based in faith in Jesus as the Messiah and son of the Lord, and I embrace that faith in full. Still, I am trying to figure out what I really should be doing to serve the Lord, and how that relates to situations in my life.
I am struck by just how grand the Lord had fulfilled his promise to Israel, completed in the time of David and Solomon. It was a comprehensive fulfillment of the promise of the land as far as Abraham could have possibly seen.
I am blessed. There is no doubt about this fact. May I find more mental and physical strength to serve the Lord in response to that blessing, and live into his promises.
Prayer: Lord, this is my prayer today. May I serve you better, and all the more, in my mind and with my body and from my heart and through my soul. Amen.
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