Discovery Journal

Guy D. - September 7, 2011

Scripture:

2 Kings 25:9 He set fire to the temple of the LORD, the royal palace and all the houses of Jerusalem. Every important building he burned down.

Observation:

More than likely, the Ark of Covenant was in the temple and burned along with it. The Lord cared more about His people than about the His temple or the Ark, His dwelling place. He sacrificed the articles of worship to turn the hearts of His people. Even in the Old Testament, God values relationship over religious rite.

Application:

I think that the majority of people can see the truth that God is not an inanimate object. When we just go through the motions, however, it is the same as if we were worshiping a rock. It neglects the relationship and God is not in it, just as He was not in the articles of worship.

Prayer:

Lord, it is only by Your grace that I have relationship with You. Help me not to neglect it by just going through the motions. The value in sacrament comes only though knowing You are at the center. Allow me to be mindful of Your presence all the days of my life.