The Holiness of Sacred Places: Why God's Presence Still Comes First
"My wife shall not live in the house of David king of Israel, because the places are holy where the Ark of the Lord has entered." ~ 2 Chronicles 8:11
In a world that constantly tells us to do what works, chase what’s comfortable, and prioritize personal or political gain, Solomon’s decision in 2 Chronicles 8:11 hits differently. Solomon married the daughter of Pharaoh, one of the most powerful alliances he could make. However, when it came time to decide where she would live, he drew a line. She couldn’t stay in the same place where the Ark of the Covenant had been. Why? Because that space had been touched by the presence of God. And for Solomon, that still mattered.
What Does "Holy" Even Mean?
Let’s simplify this concept. Holy means something is set apart for God. It’s not common or casual; it’s sacred. This principle doesn't just apply to places. Your home can be holy. Your marriage can be holy. Even your parenting can be holy. But that only happens when we intentionally protect what belongs to God and refuse to allow compromise to set in.
When Sacred Meets Strategy
Solomon wasn’t merely making a marriage decision; he made a political move. This decision involved diplomacy, alliances, and expanding influence. Yet, even amid strategy, he paused to reflect and declared: “My wife can’t live where God’s presence has been. That place is holy.”
What If We Made Decisions Like That Today?
What if we paused before welcoming influences into our homes and said, “Is this honoring God’s presence here?”
What if we trained our children to view their bodies, words, and decisions as sacred, not just as ordinary?
The Cultural Pressure to Compromise
Let’s be honest: It’s easier to go with the flow. It can feel simpler to allow that show to play, overlook that attitude, or establish that connection because “it helps the brand” or “builds the platform.”
But here’s the problem: When we stop honoring God’s holiness, we begin to lose His presence.
Solomon’s life proves this truth. He experienced a moment of spiritual clarity in 2 Chronicles 8:11. However, he later compromised, leading him into idolatry (1 Kings 11:4).
Sacred Places That Need Protection Today
Our Homes
Your home is more than just a place to live; it’s a spiritual atmosphere. Turn off anything that dishonors God. Pray together. Establish rhythms of worship and peace.
Our Marriages
Don’t normalize distance or dysfunction. Invite God into your relationship. Protect intimacy, purpose, and unity as if they are holy, because they truly are.
Our Parenting
Teach your children that they were created to live set apart. This does not mean they are weird or better—just holy. Let them witness you choose God over convenience, comfort, and culture.
Our Influence
Whether you lead a family, a team, a business, or a ministry, ensure the ground you’re building on is sacred. This means prioritizing truth over trend, purity over popularity, and obedience over outcome.
In a society driven by effectiveness, flashiness, or “strategy,” God is still looking for people who will choose what is holy. Individuals who will declare:
“God’s presence in my life means more than the opinions of others.”
“I’d rather lose influence than lose His favor.”
“If it touches the sacred, I won’t compromise.
Conclusion: The Priority of Holiness
Holiness is not about perfection; it’s about priority. What you protect reflects what you truly value. Let your family, decisions, and leadership demonstrate this fundamental truth: God’s presence still comes first.
As we navigate a world filled with distractions, let us strive to remember that the spaces we create, the relationships we nurture, and the choices we make should honor what is sacred. By doing this, we reflect a commitment to living a life of holiness in every aspect.
May we all commit to safeguarding the sacred places in our lives. This is not just a choice; it is a lifestyle.