1 Kings 10:18 Then the king made a great throne covered with ivory and overlaid with fine gold.
I have made a concerted effort in the last 5-10 years to praise God always—when life is going well AND when it isn’t. I’m not going to lie, when clinging to God is the only way to get through the day, I have no trouble remembering how desperately I need Him in my life. But when life is going well, it’s much easier to take Him for granted, to neglect to praise Him for all that is good in my life.
1 Kings 10:20 Twelve lions stood on the six steps, one at either end of each step. Nothing like it had ever been made for any other kingdom.
I feel like this is what we are seeing with Solomon in this chapter. Things are good, REALLY good, for Solomon. He has riches. He has respect. He has power. He is God’s chosen king, but does he remember that God put him on that throne? Does he remember what God said to him in 1 Kings 9:4-5? Does he remember that he is to walk before God faithfully with integrity of heart and uprightness? I do not get a sense of that here.
1 Kings 10:23 King Solomon was greater in riches and wisdom than all the other kings of the earth.
Lord, Thank You for this day and this scripture. Thank You for Your presence in my life always. Help me to praise You every moment of every day, not just on those days that I know I can’t make it without You. You make my life worth living. Help me always be mindful of that truth. Draw me closer. Amen.
1 Kings 10:24 The whole world sought audience with Solomon to hear the wisdom God put in his heart.
Have a blessed day
My faith, my life, my teaching–it's all a work in progress.