I Kings 8, II Chronicles 7
From Solomon's Scrolls
I turned to the people again, and blessed all of Israel in my loudest voice:
"Praise be to the Lord who has given us rest just as He promised. He has never failed us, not for even one promise which was given to Moses. May the Lord our God be with us as he was with our fathers. May he never leave us nor forsake us. May he turn our hearts to Him to walk in all His ways and to keep His commandments, decrees, and regulations.
May these words of mine, which I have prayed before the Lord be near to our Lord and God both day and night that he may support us in our cause according to each day's need, so that all the people of the world may know the Lord is God and there is no other.
But, you Israelites, your heart must be committed to the Lord our God, to live by his decrees and obey his commands, as you are at this time.
And then the most amazing thing happened. Fire came down from heaven and totally consumed the sacrifice on the altar behind me.
The people fell to their knees amazed. Some cried out, some sang praises, some laughed with joy, but all worshipped God saying, "He is good, his love endures forever."
The Glory of the Lord then filled the temple. The priests stood at the temple door, unable to enter as a result.
The people and I offered sacrifices t the Lord. To show my devotion I offered twenty thousand sheep and goats. Our sacrifices completed the dedication of the temple of God.
All the Israelites stood as the Levites played their instruments, leading the people in praises to God.
I set aside a place in the middle courtyard for more sacrifices. There I also offered burnt offerings, the fat of the fellowship offerings. because there wasn't any more room on the other altar.
I ordered all the people to observe the festivals for this time for seven days. We celebrated the dedication of the altar for seven days and the festival for seven days more. On the twenty-third day of the seventh month I told the people to go to their homes. They sang as they walked, a glorious sound. The sounded faded in the hills along with the people.
Our hearts were so deeply glad for the good things the Lord had done for us.
Thank you, Lord God, our Almighty Father.
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1. After Solomon finished the prayers he turned to the people and _________
2. The Israelites were expected to be committed to _____________. To live _______
3. After the blessing what happened to the sacrifice?
4. The people fell _____________
5. The Levites _________ at the celebration.
6. How long did the people celebrate?
7. After the festivals, what did Solomon tell the people to do?
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