Christ is the builder of his spiritual temple. He builds it on the foundation of his unchanging love, his powerful grace, and his unfailing truth. But like Solomon's temple, the materials need preparation. There are cedars from Lebanon, but they're not yet cut and shaped into the fragrant cedar planks that will beautify the courts of God's house in heaven.

There are also rough stones still in the quarry. They must be carved and squared. This is all Christ's work. Every believer is being prepared and refined for their place in the temple, and it's Christ's hand that does this work. Afflictions can't sanctify us unless Christ uses them for this purpose.

Our prayers and efforts can't ready us for heaven without Jesus shaping our hearts. As in Solomon's temple, where no tools were heard because all materials were perfectly prepared for their place, so it is with the temple Jesus builds. All preparation happens on earth. Once we reach heaven, there will be no more refining through affliction or suffering.

We must be ready here on earth. Christ does all the work beforehand. And when it's done, he will lovingly take us across death's river to the heavenly Jerusalem, to stand forever as pillars in the Lord's temple. "Under his watchful care, the building will rise—majestic, strong, and beautiful—and shine above the skies."