Focus

I Kings 7:15-22, Ezekiel 40:48-49, II Chronicles 3:15-17, Genesis 31:44-45,51-53, Ephesians 3:16-20

After Solomon built the temple he placed two pillars at the portico, or entrance. These were not part of the supporting structure (II Chronicles 3:15-17). They were symbols. The pillar on the right, South, he named Jachin, “he shall establish” (I Kings 7:21). The pillar on the left, North, he named Boaz, “in it is strength.” The pillar on the right represents Christ (Psalm 110:1, Matthew 22:41-46, Heb 8:1). Christ established a heavenly kingdom, His Church. (John 18:36-37, Hebrews 8, Romans 5) The pillar on the left represents the Holy Spirit, strength (Ephesians 3:16). These pillars were made of bronze. When we see a bronze statue today we understand it was meant to last through weathering. Bronze is a symbol showing that the things God establishes and strengthens are made to last, to endure.

In Zechariah 4, we read about the vision and interpretation of “these two anointed ones.” The olive trees on each side of the lamp stand are Christ and the Holy Spirit. The Lamp stand represents the eyes of God. The name Christ means "anointed one." Jesus is the anointed one who established the heavenly kingdom - His church. In John 14:16-17,26, Jesus tells his disciples that God will send the Holy Spirit to them to be with them forever after Christ returns to His Father in heaven. Jesus refers to the Holy Spirit as "another counselor." The Holy Spirit is the second anointed one sent by God in the name of Jesus. The Holy Spirit is the anointed one who strengthens.

The Israelites were guided by two pillars during their deliverance from Egypt. The pillar of cloud by day lead the people where God wanted them to go. They were to follow it. And the pillar of fire by night gave them light in the darkness (Exodus 13:22). The Cloud represents Jesus the one who establishes. (Daniel 7:13, Mark 13:26). Fire is symbolic of the Spirit (Luke 3:16, Acts 2:1-4). The Holy Spirit is the one who strengthens.

The pillar of witness between Jacob and Laban was a heap of stones (Genesis 31:45-52). This pillar was a reminder of their agreement with each other and before God. If no one was around to see what each one was doing God would be the witness and would know if either one broke the agreement.

Activity

What do you want God to establish and strengthen in you - in your family - in your relationships? What does scripture say about it? Agree with God on what is to be established and strengthened and create a pillar of witness. Write down scriptures on a piece of scrapbook paper. Get a candle pillar and wrap the written words around the pillar. Secure the paper with glue and ribbon. Place the pillar where you will see it daily and be reminded of your agreement with God. Pray for this to be established and strengthened. Thank God for the blessings you will receive through this agreement.

Example Prayer

• Begin the prayer with thanksgiving, “Thank you for establishing your Kingdom, your Church. Thank you for the cornerstone, Jesus. Thank you for your Spirit who strengthens us for work in your Kingdom. Thank you for making a place for me in your Kingdom.”
• Continue with praise, “You establish truth and love. Your foundation is firm. You keep your promises. I love you with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. You are my source of strength.”
• Petition the Lord on your behalf, “Father, establish your Word in me. Let me have an answer for the hope I have in Christ (I Peter 3:15, Colossians 4:6). Let me be established in love. (Ephesians 3:16-18) Strengthen me for the work in your Church.”
• Make requests on behalf of others, “Establish love and devotion to God in my family (Acts 10:2). Establish unity in your church. Bind us together with love (Colossians 3:13-15, I John 3:11) Let the Spirit of Truth reveal your will and way in those who seek you. May all who seek you find you and be established and strengthened in you.”
• Confirm your faith, “Father, because you establish all things through Jesus, the Word, I expect you will bless this petition. Because of your Word I believe you will do even more than I ask (Ephesians 3:20). Because of your promise to send the Holy Spirit in the name of Jesus to strengthen me I trust your perfect timing and your excellent way.” 
• Close your prayer, “In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.”

Follow-up Activity

When you pray throughout the week use the candle pillar as a reminder of what God wants to establish or strengthen. Read the scriptures you have written. Praise God for establishing His church through Jesus Christ. Thank Him for the Spirit who strengthens us. Thank Him for blessing you through your agreement with His word. Share your blessings with others.

Materials

• Candle Pillar (suggested - 3” diameter, 8” tall)
• Permanent markers, fine point
• Scrapbook paper – various patterns and colors
• Glue stick, scissors
• Ribbon
• Music - create an atmosphere for reflection and prayer during the activity, Gateway Worship CD, “Living for You”

  

Resource

Truths that Build: Principles that will Establish and Strengthen the People of God, Dick Iverson, May 2008, Forward written by Jack Hayford.

URL: http://refbible.com – definitions for Jakin and Boaz

URL: http://www.myspace.com/gatewaygenerate , “God Be Praised,” by David and Alana Moore