It took Solomon and his workforce seven years to complete the first temple to God. It was magnificent. It was made with cedar, gold and silver. Its construction was done by the best master craftsman. Everything was cut to size so that no hammer was heard at the actual construction site. As impressive as this temple was, it is not as impressive as the temple God is building.

God is busy at work on his own temple. However, this temple is not built with wood, precious metals and jewels. It is built with flesh and blood. Plus, this temple is not made with hands. It is made by God’s Spirit. He is the one working to make us presentable for Jesus on the day of his appearing.

It took only seven years to make Solomon’s temples. However, God is more patient than that. He is taking a lifetime to make his temple just right.

God is at work in you. He understands that we are flesh and blood, prone to sin through temptation. Each time we sin, it is an opportunity for God to take a little more junk away and add a little of himself into us. He wastes nothing. If you believe in Jesus as your Savior and have given your life to him, then you are in the process of becoming a new creation. Remember, God does not make junk. He makes treasure.

Brad Rushing

Extended Scripture: 1 Kings 5–7