Solomon had it all. People came from the ends of the earth to see his splendor and revel in his wisdom. His father David was a wartime king. He carefully handed over a kingdom that could be one of peace and building.
And build he did! Solomon’s Temple, Solomon’s magnificent house, built with tribute wealth of all the nations of the earth. And much, much more! But even all of this could not cover for his divided heart. Lots of good words and good works – but weak within his core. And it eventually ate his lunch.
Take the time to review and ponder Solomon’s life story. It will set the stage for our consideration of Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Songs.
I had an older friend who, when I asked for his advice, would look at me and say “I can tell you what NOT to do.” His perspective has served me well as I have pursued the heart of David, and dodged the sad result of his son Solomon’s heart choices. Saul: No Heart. David: Whole Heart. Solomon: Half-heart.
Peruse well, my meditating, intentional friend!
“And He said to His disciples, “For this reason I say to you, do not worry about your life, as to what you will eat; nor for your body, as to what you will put on. For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing.
Consider the ravens, for they neither sow nor reap; they have no storeroom nor barn, and yet God feeds them; how much more valuable you are than the birds! And which of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life’s span? If then you cannot do even a very little thing, why do you worry about other matters?
Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; but I tell you, not even Solomon in all his glory clothed himself like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass in the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace, how much more will He clothe you? You men of little faith!
And do not seek what you will eat and what you will drink, and do not keep worrying. For all these things the nations of the world eagerly seek; but your Father knows that you need these things. But seek His kingdom, and these things will be added to you.
Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom.” – Luke 12:1-32
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