When Solomon had the ark brought to the temple in Jerusalem, only the two tablets of stone were in it. Aaron’s rod and the jar of manna were missing. Perhaps someone alone the way thought that these items might be valuable or bring good fortune. At any rate, the real value was not in the symbols of God’s presence and power – it was in the presence itself.
LORD, may we cling to your person, not to symbols of your power.
Solomon’s building projects were works of art. He took all the time he needed to get the work done right. He employed the best help there was to employ. He used the best materials, so that what he did would last, and retain its value. In this age of cheap materials, quick fixes and multiple distractions, we could learn a lot from this ancient king.
LORD, keep us on focus, that what we do with our lives lasts beyond them.
The process of discipleship is very much like that of Solomon building the LORD’s temple.
LORD, give us a passion for building your temple within ourselves today.
Solomon drafted an army of men from Israel, and hired thousands of others from elsewhere. There was no battle to fight. There was a house to build: a temple to the LORD. The entire project was an expression of worship. The God who had given peace was praised when his people used their peace to express their love for him. How are we using the peace that God has given us?
LORD, teach us how to use our peace to build a house for you.
Solomon inherited tremendous power, prominence, and prosperity – more than anyone else he knew. What he chose to do with that wealth showed great wisdom.
LORD, should you bless us with wealth, may we use it wisely.
Solomon’s great wisdom was a gift from the LORD, because he asked for it. James tells us that if anyone lacks wisdom, he should ask God – who gives to all freely. God does not reserve his gifts for the prominent and powerful.
An example of Solomon’s wisdom is recorded in this chapter. The famous story of the two women claiming the same child was probably told thousands of times by the people. They were in awe of their king’s wisdom.
LORD, give us remarkable wisdom.
The dark side of Solomon’s peaceful reign is shown in this chapter. Benaiah goes about executing the enemies of Solomon, thereby preventing more insurrection and civil war. But each enemy is given a chance to show himself honorable. Solomon is known for his wisdom and wealth. But there is a sharp stick close at hand if he needed it.
In narratives like this, it is sometimes difficult to see whether actions described are actually prescribed. In other words, it is hard to see what kind of behavior the stories are promoting. In any case, we can conclude that generally it is a good idea to take care of one’s problems before building one’s kingdom.
LORD, give us wisdom to deal shrewdly with our enemies.
Adonijah’s party was interrupted with news that Solomon had been made king in his place. His first thought was self-protection. For that reason he clung to the altar. If he had been sincere in seeking the LORD’s protection, it would have been demonstrated in his later choices. Solomon was right to say “If he will show himself a worthy man, not one of his hairs shall fall to the earth, but if wickedness is found in him, he shall die”(1 Kings 1:52 ESV). Wisdom renders forgiveness to the penitent, but keeps an eye open because Satan is till at work in this world.
LORD, give us wisdom to deal shrewdly with those who seek our favor.
Circumstances conspired to bring about some awkward moments for several people in today’s text.
LORD, when we face awkward moments, give us courage to trust you.
Are we puppets on a string? Is there freedom to choose our own destiny? Might I suggest that the answer to both of those questions could be “yes.”
David owns the responsibility for taking the census, but the author of 2 Samuel says that the lord incited him to do it. The punishment for this mistake took David to the threshing floor of Araunah – which would later be the site where Solomon will build the temple.
Rather than debate the sovereignty or freedom question, it might be best to follow David’s lead: own up to your mistakes, trust God to make things right. Know that he is in control no matter what mistakes you make.
LORD, we surrender our sovereignty to yours.
1 Kings 8:1-21
1 Kings 7
1 Kings 6
1 Kings 5
1 Kings 4
1 Kings 3
1 Kings 2
1 Kings 1:28-53
1 Kings 1:1-27
2 Samuel 24
