King Solomon has quite the reputation. More and more wealth continues to flow his way. He is well-respected, helping many nations, not just his own, with the wisdom God gave him.
The lavish appearance of the palace as well as the multitude of horses, chariots, and such seems a bit like overkill to me. I started to ask myself, “is it too much?” Enough is enough. Aren’t there hungry people somewhere that could use support? Covering everything in gold seems a little excessive to me.
I have to remember that Solomon wasn’t the lowly shepherd boy his father was. Solomon was the son of a king and would therefore be used to a more lavish lifestyle. As children, we tend to want “at least” the life our parents had and then some.
Solomon is surely stepping up his game. But from the sounds of it, he has the means to do so. What do you do with all that gold if you don’t cover everything in it? Thankfully we don’t hear about famine in the land or how the poor are being mistreated.
The world was a different place back in Solomon’s day. We know that Solomon’s success was because of God’s faithfulness. Solomon may have asked for wisdom, but God blessed him with so much more. I hope that God was receiving honor from all of Solomon’s actions.
Have you ever experienced a letdown after getting a little “too confident” of your own importance? Something happened and that success came crashing down. We started out being cautious and a bit unsure of how smart, strong, or creative we were. When we start to see success, we often feel more confident in our abilities, and “imposter syndrome” is no more. It’s a good idea to remember from where our giftings come.
God does give good gifts to his children. Matthew 7:11 says, “So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good gifts to those who ask him.” We’re back to the asking. God will give us good gifts, too.
I’m not sure I’ll use my gifts like Solomon did. It seemed he was more “me” focused wanting his environment to be “majestic.” I’m much more interested in reaching out and helping others. I delight in the opportunity to give and to share. Of course, I want to make sure I have a few perks to enjoy as well. Golden covered furniture is not on my wish list.
What’s on your wish list? How will you use the gifts God gives you?
Let’s pray …
Lord, forgive my judgmental heart that looks at Solomon’s lavish tastes with a bit of disdain. Instead, I give you praise for how you gifted Solomon and that he chose to be seen in a positive light, using all the gifts he was given by the people and by you. May I be respectful and honoring in the way I handle the gifts you give me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
