MAKING A PLACE FOR GOD

PSALM 132:3-5 NKJ 
3 "Surely I will not go into the chamber of my house, 
Or go up to the comfort of my bed; 
4 I will not give sleep to my eyes 
Or slumber to my eyelids, 
5 Until I find a place for the Lord, 
A dwelling place for the Mighty One of Jacob." 

This is a Psalm from David. We know that for certain because verse one says, "Lord remember David . . ." 

David is expressing the desire of his heart. He wanted to build a house for the Lord. David was called, by God, a man after God's own heart. He truly was an amazing individual.   

Heart of a warrior. Creativity of a skilled musician. Prophet and king. David is one of the most unique individuals in the Bible. Not perfect, but a man who, for the most part, had such a heart for God. In this psalm, David has a burning desire to make a place for God. He wanted to build God a house, a temple.   

It is interesting to note that David would never build the temple. Because he had killed so many people, God assigned the job to David's son, Solomon. But God did commend David for his desire to do the right thing, and David made the preparations in terms of resources and blueprints. He may not have seen the physical building, but he played a huge role. The temple wound up costing billions in today's money. David did not think small.   

APPLICATION: 

We are not required to build buildings to be a home for God. Our church building is dedicated to Him, but it's not His dwelling place. But we can make a place for God in our hearts.   

This should not be a casual pursuit or passing interest. This is an effort to honor God and treat Him with great respect. More than lip service, making a place for God in our lives is visible. When we make a place for Him, it will show in how we conduct our lives. Our example is the best witness we have to our family, friends, and those in our world.   

We often hear people say, "God is first." If that is the case, and it should be, then our lives will increasingly reflect that priority. We won't have to pray and read scripture and fellowship with God; we get to! 

One of the best things you can do for your life and those you care about . . . make a place for God.  

PRAYER: 

Heavenly Father, You are first place in my life. Show me how to walk that out more and more.