Joy of God's Favor

1 kings 5

The building of the temple amazes me. The cost, the labor, the amount of gold used is astonishing. While I know the idol it will become for Israel, I have to think that the dedication and sacrifice of all involved was pleasing to The Lord. Beyond that, I can see the supernatural hands of God going before Solomon's work. YHWY ordered the steps of Solomon and the treaties he made to accomplish the work. I am not naive enough to think there was no mixture of complaining and discord in Israel over this work, but the overall feel has a sweet smell to it.

When God moves there is a sweet smell. At times it may be hard to discern for the sound of crashing waves and rushing waters, but the smell is always there. It's that peaceful joy in the storm and the potent satisfaction when the trial is over. it is the sweet premonition of faith that allows us to see that Gods plans are to us after the trial what they were to God in the midst, perfect!