Prosperity often eludes us, but not so for Solomon and his court. I love how this section starts off with an answered promise. You may recall God promised Abraham in Genesis 22:17, “I will certainly bless you. I will multiply your descendants beyond number, like the stars in the sky and the sand on the seashore.” I love when the Bible points to itself. These people are those promised descendants!
A breath of fresh air! Solomon’s rule is peaceful, and there is harmony. I can’t help but remember how much fighting we read about during David’s reign. But then his gift was to be a warrior. His son is taking a different route. Could you even fathom the daily allowance of food and supplies for Solomon’s household?
I love horses, but I can’t even imagine having 12,000 of them! To care for them alone would take so many resources. Thankfully, Solomon had set in motion the support system we last read about. Key, too, is that each tribe takes their turn and has set expectations for what that is.
Of greatest importance, it seems, is the wisdom God gave to Solomon. “He was wiser than anyone else,” and “kings from every nation sent their ambassadors to listen to the wisdom of Solomon.” Not a bad reputation to have. Solomon has made a name for himself thanks to God for the blessed gift.
You have a blessed gift, too. You didn’t have to ask for yours, God simply gave it to you because that’s what he wanted for you. Are you in tune with your gifts? How are you using them to glorify God?
Maybe you don’t know, or aren’t sure, what your gift(s) might be. In that case, you should take a “Spiritual Gifts Inventory.” I’m sure there are lots to choose from on the internet – and that can be good and bad. So, be careful.
If you’d like to discuss your spiritual gifting, we can do that over in the Facebook group I’ve designed for folks who connect with my blogging and love Jesus, too. Click HERE to get quick access.
We’re seeing a snapshot of Solomon’s reign, and it sounds like utopia. You know what they say about things being “too good to be true.” We shall see if Solomon falls down any slippery slopes during this reign. For now, we can be impressed to see how orderly and peaceful everything appears to be in the “promised land.”
Take time to thank God for how he has gifted you.
Let’s pray …
Lord, thank you for creating me just the way you did. Forgive me in those times when I look in the mirror and want something I see to be different. You love me just as I am. May I become all that you have designed me to be. Help me to step out of the way and keep my eyes open for where you want to lead. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
