Solomon’s kingdom was certainly off to a different start than David’s was. And, it would conclude differently as well.
One of the things that I want to be watching for in the upcoming days is how the kingdom changed when it moved from David to Solomon, or how it changed under Solomon. That’s because after Solomon, it splits in half. I think of David, with his warrior heart, constant battles, and continual political uprisings (even his own two sons tried to overthrow him) and yet he hands off to Solomon a kingdom that is relatively secure and stable. Solomon has a few details to iron out, but no major battles to fight and as far as I can see, only one feeble interloper trying to steal the throne.
I wonder what changed, that everyone was so discontent by the time his reign concluded?
I note that in times of war people band together. This is a time of peace, and everyone is farming their own garden, and tending to their own business. No one is marching off to battle. I wonder if they somehow “let their guard down” during a time of peace? Could times of peace and prosperity be as dangerous to us spiritually as times of conflict are physically? God told Moses that they would. He said to the people that when they entered the promised land and had peace, they would forget the Lord. (Deuteronomy 31:19-21).
God made Solomon very wise, because Solomon was humble enough to ask for wisdom to lead others. Humility leads to blessings and reward from God.
Solomon saw that the mother who loved the child was willing to let him go in order that he would live. Those who love much are willing to sacrifice much. The greater the love, the larger the sacrifice can be.
Thinking of that, how much did God love us, that He sent his only Son to die for our sins? Such an enormous sacrifice certainly testifies to a love that is deep beyond comprehension.
Faithfully,
PR