Spiritual Commitments

Then the word of the Lord came to Solomon, saying: 'Concerning this temple which you are building, if you walk in My statutes, execute My judgments, keep all My commandments, and walk in them, then I will perform My word with you, which I spoke to your father David. And I will dwell among the children of Israel, and will not forsake My people, Israel. 1 Kings 6:11-13 (NKJV)

In the fourth year of Solomons reign, he starts building the temple and finishes it in the eleventh year as king. Upon finishing it, God appears to Solomon and promises that if Solomon adheres to His statutes and commandments, then He will faithfully fulfill His promise to David, Solomon’s father. This promise emphasizes a reciprocal relationship between God and His people. The temple represents not just a place of worship but is symbolic of the relationship and covenant between God and His people. It’s about establishing a community of faith that thrives under God’s care and guidance. Solomon had a massive responsibility not only in construction but in guiding his people in faithful obedience to God.

Like the temple that Solomon built, our bodies are a temple to God and a place where the Holy Spirit dwells. Romans 12:1 says, "Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship." Unlike the animal sacrifices in Solomon's temple, our bodies are a living sacrifice which signifies ongoing devotion and commitment to God. It means dedicating every aspect of our lives—thoughts, actions, and choices—to serve Him. Like the people of Israel, we are set apart for God, striving to honor him in all we do. The true and proper worship that we offer God is not just in singing to Him on Sunday mornings, but in every act that we do throughout the week. It is the spiritual commitment that we make to Him.

Choose to use your temple in a way that honors God. Remember that Christ died for our sins, and that you are inwardly renewed by grace through faith. Acknowledge Christ's lordship over your schedule, appetites, and ambitions, treating your body as God's property, aligning your habits with stewardship, submitting your talents to build up the church, and using your physical presence to bless other people. Most of all, share the Word to those that God brings to you to build His kingdom, one person at a time. This is your spiritual commitment.