I was a G.I. Bill soldier. I joined the army during peace-time, and only trained for war. By God's grace I never engaged in it. One of the advantages of having a peace-time army is that the country has a good supply of men and women who can help those who experience crisis and disaster, and help bring order back to the chaos they are experiencing. A nation is wise to utilize its military in such a way.
Solomon drafted a peace-time army of men from Israel, and hired thousands of others from elsewhere. There was no battle to fight. There was a house to build: a temple to the Lord. The entire project was an expression of worship. The God who had given peace was praised when his people used their peace to express their love for him. How are we using the peace that God has given us?
Lord, teach us how to use our peace to build a house for you.
Jefferson Vann, Auckland, New Zealand
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