As the buildings and gold pile up in 1 Kings 9 and 10, it's pretty amazing, but God doesn't want us to just stand agog at Solomon's gold. Upfront, we're reminded that Solomon's prosperity is a blessing from the Lord and that Solomon's walking before the Lord in trust and obedience is more important than anything Solomon may achieve. This isn't just true for kings, look at the things we pursue in life—career, family, ministry, education, or others—they matter, but first priority is our relationship with God.
And during the years that Solomon was living in obedience to the covenant, the fruit of his life drew others to hear his wisdom and give honor to God. The Queen of Sheba said, “Blessed be the LORD your God, who has delighted in you and set you on the throne of Israel! Because the LORD loved Israel forever, he has made you king, that you may execute justice and righteousness.” We aren't promised wealth and success like Solomon, but we are promised spiritual fruit. And the fruit of our lives will also cause others to give glory to our Father who is in heaven.
This will be true as long as our hearts are fixed on Jesus, the one who is greater than Solomon; the one whose wisdom and knowledge far outstrip Solomon's; whose kingdom is greater; whose glory shines so brightly that in comparison Solomon with all his gold appears drab and poor. |