What's Next?

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WHAT COMES AFTER SUNDAY?

Use the next steps, Bible plan, message recap, questions & resources below to go deeper.

this week's next steps

Memorize 1 Corinthians 6:19

Dedicate myself to a life of obedience to God

Read 1 Kings 9

Say yes to Jesus - click here

Join this week's Bible reading plan

This Week's Message Recap:

This week, we continued our series through the life of Solomon, focusing on perhaps his most remarkable achievement: building a permanent Temple for God’s presence to dwell among His people. Solomon began his reign well, asking God for wisdom not merely to know the truth, but to apply it in faithfully leading God’s people. In obedience, he oversaw a massive project on Mount Moriah, where God’s people wrestled with the story of their past — from slavery in Egypt to God’s covenant promises — and prepared a place for worship and holiness. As Solomon faithfully built this sacred space, God spoke to him, promising that if the people remained faithful to His commands, He would dwell among them. When the Temple was completed, the glory of the Lord filled it in fire and cloud, a powerful reminder that God honors obedience and draws near when we make space for Him.

But the story also carries a sober warning: while Solomon built for God, he also disobeyed God. He surrounded himself with foreign alliances and wives, contrary to God’s commands, eventually turning his heart aside. His life shows us that starting well doesn’t guarantee finishing well; obedience must be continued over time. Eugene Peterson’s phrase “a long obedience in the same direction” reminds us that the Christian life is not a moment but a lifelong journey of faithfulness. Today, through Jesus, God doesn’t dwell in a building; He dwells in us (as His Spirit) and calls us to live holy, daily obedience in response to His presence.

Questions to Consider:

1. What does it mean for you to “build space” for God in your life this week? How might your daily rhythms need to adjust so God’s presence feels more real in your choices?
2. Where in your life do you sense a “foot in both worlds”? Are there areas where you know God’s word but live by compromise instead?
3. In what ways can you practice “long obedience in the same direction” this season? What small daily habit or commitment could help you walk in faithful obedience?
4. How has God shown up or spoken to you when you’ve been faithful in obedience in the past? How can remembering that encourage you now?
5. Reflect on God’s presence promised in the Temple and His presence promised in you (through the Spirit). What difference does it make to live knowing God dwells with and in you?