We have before us one of the most fascinating incidents in the life of Solomon—a regal visit. The Queen of Sheba’s visit (1 Ki 10:1-10, 13) is a story that exposes the pride of man, for many, attempting to enhance it, spoil it with cheap dramatics. The Lord, on the other hand, elevates the story […]
This section might be seen as a recounting of Solomon’s achievements, but it’s full of warnings as well. Chapter 9 of 1 Kings seems to be full of check marks for Solomon. It begins with another private meeting with the Lord (vv 1-9), something few people experience. Then it tells of the remarkable alliance between […]
The temple of old was like heaven’s hot spot on earth, but now we may enter “the holiest” itself. Having interceded for Israel and their anticipated times of need in the future, Solomon “arose from before the altar of the Lord, from kneeling on his knees with his hands spread up to heaven. Then he […]
Read More… from March 15, 2024 — Blessings Come Down & Offerings Go Up
Solomon wisely knew that, when God’s people fail, He is the go-to Friend every time. It’s good when people commune with God as they confide in close friends. He is, after all, the best Friend one could have. Here Solomon speaks to the Lord as he has just spoken to the people. “Lord God of […]
Our Scripture passage today shows the two vital exercises of the soul to be engaged in daily. Much is made of physical exercise these days, which the Scripture says “profits a little, but,” Paul adds, “godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to […]
The pot of manna and Aaron’s budding rod were missing, but those wilderness needs were past now. There is no question that there were larger buildings constructed for the various gods of the Gentiles, although there was none more lavish than Solomon’s temple in Jerusalem. But whatever the other shrines boasted, this temple would have […]
“The house that is to be builded for the Lord must be exceeding magnifical,” said David (1 Chron 22:5, KJV). David’s preparation and Solomon’s execution of the temple project succeeded in its breathtaking beauty. That’s the impression I get when reading 1 Kings 7. After briefly describing the House of the Forest of Lebanon (vv […]
Build for time and self, It only turns to dust; But build along with God, It will forever last! Solomon and his massive work crew spent seven years building the Lord’s house. Then “Solomon took thirteen years to build his own house” (1 Ki 7:1). Almost twice as long on his own place as on […]