Synopsis
Solomon's God-given wisdom continued to be demonstrated as he begun to build the temple. Clearly, Solomon showed that his heart was all for God as when King Hiram sought to renew the relationship with Israel, the first thing that Solomon did was to ask for Tyre's contribution of cedar wood for the construction. We see also that Solomon was fair in wanting to pay for the supply. Additionally, his organization of the labor force show a high consideration for the family unit.
Major Verses
V3-5 - While David had the heart to build the temple for God, God did not want him too. God wanted a peacemaker, not a warrior to build his temple (1 Chronicles 17:7-14). God fulfilled His words to David and established the kingdom through Solomon.
What I learn
God's ways are always higher than our ways. David was careful to accept and obey God's instruction. Though it meant the he would not fulfill the desires of his own heart, he fully accepted and praise God for His goodness. We must learn to yield our will and expectations to God completely. Only then, can we live victoriously for Him.
V6 - Solomon was fair. He did not extract the cedar wood from King Hiram as part of the treaty. Instead, he offered to pay "whatever wages" Hiram would set.
What I learn
In our dealings, we must be fair and never exploitative. Like David (2Sam 24:24), Solomon knew that it would mean nothing if he build the temple without paying a fair price to the supplier. Let us be careful not to exploit others. As God blesses us abundantly and freely, let us bless others too.
V13-14 - The laborers were conscripted - 30,000 of them. This meant that they would be taken away from their families. But Solomon decided that these men would be grouped into 3 groups of 10,000 each. He did this so that he would have only 10,000 working at a time and for a month. This allowed the other 20,000 to be with their families for two months before taking their shifts. This showed that Solomon valued the family higher and did not build the temple at that expense.
What I learn
The family unit is God's creation and He puts utmost importance in this grouping. In many cultures too, the family unit forms the basic foundation for the society's fabric and the nation's success. Solomon's wisdom demonstrated God's priority. We must also value our family above all else, except God. Even the church and church activities must not stand our way of ensuring a strong family bond.
Summary
As David and Solomon yielded their wills to God, so must we. Only then can we realize real joy and success. We also must value our family as it is God's will.
Over to YOU!
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Up next ....
The actual construction begins. Let's learn the truth and teachings beyond the blueprint of the temple. Coming up on 26th Nov...
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