2 Chronicles 8 – Solomon’s Other Activities
2 Chronicles 9 – Solomon’s Wisdom, Splendor And Death
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I missed a part yesterday that is significant and important to dwell on before wrapping up with Solomon in this book:
Then the other side of the coin
Historically, we know these words turn out to be prophetic, the temple is completely destroyed, though long after Solomon’s reign. Twenty years in the making, Solomon dedicated himself to building the temple and worked to restore Israel’s faith and commitment to God. Beyond the temple, Solomon extended his talent to other cities, restoring and rebuilding them. His fame grew and he became know to many in distant lands. The wandering escapees from Egypt are now the powerful architects of a new kingdom.
The Queen of Sheba hears about Solomon and comes to see for herself, “when the queen of Sheba saw the wisdom of Solomon, as well as the palace he had built, the food on his table…she was overwhelmed” (9:3-4). Indeed his fortunes were great, “King Solomon was greater in riches and wisdom than all the other kings of the earth” (9:22).
The book of 2 Chronicles is pretty brief on details about Solomon, a quick review of his legacy. It seems incredible that he could reign with such authority and avoid scandals, but there are simply few references to such incidents. Much different than David’s up and down. In 1 Kings we read about the enormous number of wives and see the chink in his armor, but not here in Chronicles. So the historian’s perspective is that Solomon was good more than bad, but the next generation begins to slip away from Israel. The slow fade.
Lord help me to learn from this positive perspective of an incredible leader, one with great wisdom and discernment.