Thursday 10 January 2008
- Bible Book:
- 1 Kings
"So she said to the king, 'The report was true that I heard in my own land of your accomplishments and of your wisdom, but I did not believe the reports until I came and my own eyes had seen it'". (v. 6-7a)
Background
In the Hebrew tradition Kings remains one book, but in theChristian Bible it is split into 1 and 2 Kings. It gives a historyof the kings of Israel and Judah in the light of God's covenants.This particular passage is describing the reign of Solomon and thesplendour of his court.
The Queen of Sheba has come to visit and see for herself thisfamous king. Sheba was probably in modern day Arabia, and was atrading nation. It had links with India and Africa, trading inspices, precious stones, precious metals and fine woods. In thisaccount of the queen's visit to Jerusalem we hear of her generosityas she brings large quantities of these commodities as gifts.
She praises God for blessing Solomon and his people, but alsorecognises that with blessing comes responsibility. Solomon is kingbut has been given the task of maintaining justice andrighteousness. Solomon is wise, a king who has managed his kingdomwell. The people are happy and the country is wealthy. We know thatSolomon had a fleet of merchant ships that were also trading ingoods from Africa and India.
The queen has heard about this amazing man but doesn't quitebelieve it. She has come to see him with her own eyes and test him.No doubt she also wants to build a trading relationship withSolomon.
Solomon proves his wisdom in the way he treats his guest and in howhe uses her gifts. Firstly he treats her with great respect, givingher "all she asked for" and willingly answering her questions.However he also shows her that he has even greater respect for God.He shows her the beauty and order of his palace, but also hissacrifice and worship at the Temple. Even her gifts are used forthe glory of God as he puts them to use in the Temple. The queen isan honoured guest, but God is honoured above even her.
To Ponder
How willing are you to believe in things thatseem too amazing to be true?
What can you do to treat those around you withrespect, recognising that they are worthy of honour?
How far do you use the things God has given youwith wisdom, giving glory to God?