Pastor Cheryl shared from 2Chronicles 6 and 7 that prayer can be a powerful connection and conduit for encountering God. Solomon had been gifted like no one else before or after him and his encounter with God is breath taking. The brief history that follows below, (reading all of the verses will provide more specific detail), will underscore that Solomon has prayed for God’s people to have a path back to Him after they wander into trouble and trials. Solomon did much good, shared wisdom that continues to be powerful to this day. His kingdom rule was started in humility and wisdom. He was also extremely wealthy and powerful, which seems to create obstacles that even Solomon’s wisdom did not overcome. He asked for and God gave His people a clear path to reconnect with God when they sin.
A brief history of Solomon’s life:
– 1 Kings 1:32-40 David has his servants declare Solomon’s rule throughout the land of Israel.
– 1 Kings 3:4-15 God appears to Solomon in a dream and grants him wealth, honor, and a long lasting life because he chooses wisdom as a gift.
– 1 Kings 3:16-28 Solomon decides a matter between two prostitutes and his fame spreads far and wide because of his judgment.
–1Kings 4 The order of the Kingdom of Israel is established and set in motion.
– 1Kings 5-6 The great temple is built in seven years.
– 1Kings 7 Solomon begins his house, another thirteen years in the making, as well as other housing projects. Also, Solomon has the furniture for the temple made in this season.
– 1Kings 8 After twenty years the temple and its furnishings are complete and there is a great convocation (2Chron 6 with great sacrifice Solomon intercedes for God’s people).
– 1Kings 9:2-6 God’s warns Solomon not to turn away from serving him, or he would have to suffer the consequences. (2Chron 7 – God appears to Solomon, affirms his prayer, and the possibility of restoration after sin and its consequences).
– 1Kings 11:1-3 states that Solomon had 700 wives and 300 concubines and this displeases the Lord. (trouble!)
– 1Kings 11:9-13 God decided to divide up the kingdom from the line of David.
– 1Kings 11:14-40 Scriptures outline the major problems that Solomon had during the last few years of his reign.
The second half of Solomon’s reign is marked with trouble and the raising up of various adversaries. Does Solomon know what to do as various circumstances worsen? (2Chron 6:12-42; 2Chron 7:1-14 indicate he should) God agreed He would welcome His people to come in repentance when they were in trouble and He would listen. Solomon knows what to do but doesn’t do it. Do we know what to do when life’s trials overwhelm us? What do you think? In 2Chron 7:12-14 we have a clear reminder that God will respond to our prayer of repentance and faith.
It isn’t our job to be experts in exactly how others sin. Our knowledge won’t make us or anyone else repent! Being faithful to share with a brother or sister what you are seeing could be helpful to them, yet each one of us will give an account of himself to God.
If Solomon were your friend, how would you pray for him, and what might you say to him? Is there an area of your life which needs more humble seeing of God, rather than being discouraged or just trying harder in your own strength?