If we understand that 1 and 2 Chronicles were written as one book then to understand the beginning of Solomon’s reign we need to look at the message that immediately precedes it. The last subject in 1 Chronicles is the death of David; Solomon’s father and king of Israel. As a part of his outreach to the people Solomon stopped in Gibeon to worship before the tabernacle that Moses had led Israel to build in the wilderness of Sinai. I picture centuries old tent as being in pristine condition because of God’s favor. Maybe David had visited here frequently during the previous 40 years we don’t know for sure. Solomon offered a thousand Thanksgiving sacrifices on the altar constructed in the wilderness. I believe that Solomon’s actions were not politically motivated, but the expression of a genuine thanksgiving for all that God had done in his life. That is why God appeared to Solomon in the dream that night and sought his heart’s desire. It is an interesting twist on prayer; God asking his faithful son what he wants. What was God’s motivation? To honor the one who had honored him so lavishly. I believe that God still seeks to work in our lives the same way.
It took me about 15 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart
No comments:
Post a Comment