1 Kings 7

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I Kings 7:1-4, Solomon also built a palace for himself, and it took him thirteen years to complete the construction.  One of Solomon’s buildings was called the Palace of the Forest of Lebanon. It was 150 feet long, 75 feet wide, and 45 feet high. There were four rows of cedar pillars, and great cedar beams rested on the pillars. The hall had a cedar roof. Above the beams on the pillars were forty-five side rooms, arranged in three tiers of fifteen each. On each end of the long hall were three rows of windows facing each other. All the doorways and doorposts had rectangular frames and were arranged in sets of three, facing each other.

What’s interesting, as we read about the construction of the temple, is that Solomon also builds himself a palace.  While the temple construction is detailed, Solomon’s personal palace is even more so and it takes nearly twice the time to build.  It is larger and thus, most likely more expensive.  Remember, he used conscripted labor for his own palace.  This can’t help but send up red flags for the reader. While Solomon asked for wisdom, it appears he doesn’t always use it.

The question we will continue to ask as we witness Solomon’s time on the throne, “Is this palace and all of Solomon’s wealth a sign of God’s blessing OR a sign of self-indulgence?”  We all would be wise to reflect on this question in our own lives as well.

Let’s pray…Lord Jesus, We want to be good stewards of all you have given us.  Help us use our resources well, in ways that honor you.  Give us true wisdom, Lord.  In Your name, Amen.