DAY 157: JOURNEY THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEAR – 1 KINGS 5-9
June 4, 2024
1 KINGS 5-9
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DAY 157: JOURNEY THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEAR
In today’s reading, we are given a glimpse of what Solomon accomplished during his first 24 years as King of Israel. It also shows that Solomon struggled with temptations, as does all mankind.
Ask God for His understanding of 1 Kings 5-9. Read 1 Kings 5-9. Let’s journey!
The books of First and Second Kings were originally written as one text that tells the story of the kings of Israel, continuing where we left off in 2 Samuel, with King David and his son Solomon, soon to be king. Ultimately, it is a history of the decline of the kingdom of Israel, as they move away from the Lord. The author of the Book of Kings, provides a judgment on the rule of each king, based on their worship of the Lord God and the keeping of the covenant Israel made with God. Throughout the book of Kings, we also see that prophets are raised up in an attempt to steer Israel and its kings back on the path of following the Lord.
1 Kings 5-9: Our reading begins by detailing the preparation for, and construction of, the Temple. We are then given details regarding the construction of Solomon’s palace. It took 13 years to build the palace. It only took 7 years to build the Temple. The Place is much larger than the Lord’s temple. Is something about Solomon changing? The Ark is brought to the Temple and the Temple is dedicated in a celebration that lasted 14 days. The Lord reaffirms His covenant to Solomon and Solomon’s heirs. However, Solomon appears to not be dealing with people with the integrity he had in the past. (1 Kings 5:1-9:28)
After reading today’s reading, consider the following: What kings were present in today’s reading? Were they good or bad? How do you know? What lesson can be learned, or what warning can be taken from a study of these kings? What warnings, if any, were given by prophets? How can understanding the fall of Israel help us today in the way that we view authority figures?
Godspeace!
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