Friday 11 January 2008

Background

This passage describes the splendour of King Solomon and thelifestyle he led. Solomon obviously had a lavish court full ofbeautiful things. He had a huge income on top of the profit he madein trade and the taxes he was paid by other merchants. This wasspent creating fine surroundings and embellishing hispalaces.

This seems a bit strange. Why is this story being told? What is thepoint in us knowing how wonderful Solomon's life was?

Of course Solomon's life was not as perfect as it sounds. He wasstill subject to Jewish law, still struggling to do everything forthe glory of God. There is a faint resonance of Jesus reminding usthat it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God (Mark 10:17-22). Itwould be so easy for Solomon to believe that he has made it, thateverything is perfect, and that he does not need God any more. ButSolomon doesn't fall into this trap. In this he shows his wisdommore profoundly than in anything else he has done.

Verse 24 reminds us that Solomon is wise because of God, thateverything Solomon has depends on God, and that Solomon continuesto prosper because God continues to bless him. Solomon's splendouris a light to the nations and the whole world is seeking his wisdombut we are reminded that the primary source of that light isGod.

To Ponder

How willing are you to recognise the ways thatGod blesses your life?

Have you ever fallen into the trap of believingyou no longer need God? Why do you think this happened?

How is your lifestyle giving glory to God? Areyou using your blessings wisely?