1 Kings 8

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. VIII.—When religion prospers it is the subject of general joy to God’s people: and, when kings become nursing fathers to the church, courtiers will pretend much zeal for her interests. But it is pleasant to observe all ranks concur in the solemn worship of God. He rejoices to meet them who work righteousness and remember him in all their ways, and to take up his abode with them. Though clouds and darkness be round about him, justice and judgment are the habitation of his throne, and mercy and truth go before his face. When God is present, and his Spirit poured out, with what liveliness do men observe the fulfilment of God’s promises, and pour forth their prayers to him. The fervent petitions which are then presented to God, in the name of Christ our true temple, are always effectual, and available to nations, families, and individuals. What pardon—what healing—what purification—what victory—what deliverance, may they obtain! The grateful sense of God’s special favours thus enjoyed, the influences of his presence and grace, and the faith of his Son’s mediation, most powerfully determine and constrain to an holy obedience to his laws. Such real and lively religion would make our meetings and partings on earth pleasant and happy. But how much more so shall our gathering to Jesus be, never to part, but to feast eternally on him, as our great atonement, our only peace-offering, and our ALL and in ALL!