Read: 1
Kings 4
Solomon, as a wise king, established structure.
Wisdom dictates that one person cannot do everything. Thus, Solomon set
officials over the various departments in his kingdom. Solomon chose to adopt
several of David’s officials as his own, because David had exercised sound
judgment during his reign. Zadok and Abiathar were priests under both Solomon
and David (v 4, 2 Sam. 20:25). Benaiah remained leader of the army (v 4, 2 Sam
23:20-23). Solomon’s choice of officials displayed respect for his father and
adherence to the fifth commandment: “Honour your mother and your father, that
your days may be prolonged in the land which the Lord your God gives you” (Ex
20:12).
Next, we read of Solomon’s great riches (v 21-28). The
Lord has fulfilled his promised to multiply Solomon’s wealth and honour (3:13).
Solomon also recognized that the riches in Israel must be properly managed. He
set up a system whereby one official was responsible for each month of the year
(v 7, 27). Each official had a region he managed. When it was a region’s
appointed month, they were required to provide resources for the king. This
system limited the unfair distribution of wealth that is common when one region
alone provides for a monarch (and thereby struggles to grow their own economy),
while another (namely the region in which the monarch resides) benefits
economically from him.
We see two insights into Solomon’s character in
this chapter. The first insight is into Solomon’s heart. In 1 Kings 3 we saw Solomon’s
willingness to compromise with a spouse. Here we see his willingness to blur
the lines of the laws for kings (see Deut 17:16, which prohibits a king from
amassing horses). The way a person sets up the practical aspects of their life reflects
the true nature of their heart before God. Second, we are reminded of Solomon’s
exceptional wisdom, which far surpassed that of his contemporaries. Solomon’s
wisdom drew many pilgrims, keeping Israel in the international spotlight.
Prayer and
Journaling
1. God loves structure and order. This is displayed
by His choice to include detailed lists of kings’ official leadership
structures in Scripture. Ask God how you can grow in managing the life He has
given you. Ask God to speak to you about any changes you need to make in
organizing/managing the following areas:
1. Your schedule
2. Your relationships
3. Your finances and physical belongings
2. Ask God for grace to grow in managing your life
under His direction. If you are naturally disorganized, pray for empowerment to
take responsibility over the things in your care. If you are naturally over-organized,
pray for the ability to release control and trust God. Pray that God’s people
would be a light to the world through how they steward their lives and
resources.
