In verse 12 God tells Solomon that executing judgement and keeping his commandments is what will bring his blessings and prolong the covenant he made with David. From this we can understand that all the glorious detail and work and expense that went into the temple meant nothing if there wasn't a commitment to keeping God's word. 

Today we would word it differently. Practicing religion and all of its facets may be beneficial to some degree but a true heart change is the true evidence of salvation. That heart change can only come with the grace of God and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. God's covenant with us is that through faith in his son we can approach the very throne of God and be given salvation. 

In Ephesians 2 we are told that by faith alone and not works, lest we should boast. Just as Solomon could build a magnificent temple but still found it difficult to live out God's word, we to can live moral lives and not really give ourselves over to God. If we seek God out through his word and follow obediently, he will be faithful in keeping his part of the covenant. 

Even Paul in his letter to Titus stated “not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us …” (v. 5). He then goes on to state “This is a faithful saying and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works …” (v. 8).  

May we honor God today by reflecting His Son to a sick and dying world; letting our light so shine before men/women that they may see our good works and glorify our Father in heaven. (Mt 5:16)

God’s blessings on your day!