2 Chron 9:15 King Solomon made two hundred large shields of hammered gold; six hundred shekels of hammered gold went into each shield.
A popular theme in literature is that of appearance versus reality—when what seems to be isn’t actually what is. It is a common motif in life as well, and I feel like we see this theme clearly in this chapter. What appears to be a mighty defense—500 golden shields of various sizes, really isn’t made for defense. It is made to impress. Commentary says: “Gold was too heavy and too soft to be used as a metal for effective shields.”
2 Chron 9:16a He also made three hundred small shields of hammered gold, with three hundred shekels of gold in each shield….
The Queen of Sheba finds Solomon to be wise and wealthy. That’s true. But his actions toward the end of the chapter indicate that he is turning his heart from God, even now. Like his shields, Solomon appears to be getting heavy (with the weight of his amassed fortune) and soft (in his devotion to God).
2 Chron 9:16b … The king put them in the Palace of the Forest of Lebanon.
Lord, Thank You for this day and this scripture. Thank You for the reminder that You must remain at our core for us to be effective for You. Help us to be diligent in keeping our eyes, minds, and hearts focused on You. Draw us closer. Amen.
2 Chron 9:17 Then the king made a great throne covered with ivory and overlaid with pure gold.
Have a blessed day.
My faith, my life, my teaching–it's all a work in progress.