We continue our readings of the apex of Solomon’s glory and the fulfillment of Yahweh’s promises to Israel with the Queen of Sheba’s visit to Jerusalem. The Bible puts us at her side to marvel with her over Solomon’s wisdom, the organization of his household and officials and the temple service. It testifies, “There was no more breath in her” (1 Kings 10:5); in other words, she was speechless. That should be our reaction, too. Alongside her, we should recognize Israel blessing during this time: “Happy are your men! Happy are your servants, who continually stand before you and hear your wisdom!” (1 Kings 10:8) And like her, we should praise Yahweh as the fountain of all these blessings: “Blessed be the LORD your God, who has delighted in you and set you on the throne of Israel!
Because the LORD loved Israel forever, he has made you king, that you may
execute justice and righteousness” (1 Kings 10:9). Even more glorious than the material blessings and the justice that Israel enjoys in Solomon are the righteousness and lovingkindness of Yahweh.
And on this high note we end the seventh unit of the Bible, the readings on the establishment of the monarchy in Israel, that extend from Ruth 1 through 1 Kings 10. How different these are than the book of Judges! Yahweh redeemed Israel from the spiral of spiritual decline by establishing His anointed (David, and then Solomon) in His chosen city (Jerusalem), by joining him with a faithful priest (Zadok), by multiplying the Israelites in the Promised Land and by giving them peace and prosperity among all their neighbors. His people reflect His just dominion and enjoy the blessings of being His special treasure. May the name of Yahweh be exalted!
Because the LORD loved Israel forever, he has made you king, that you may
execute justice and righteousness” (1 Kings 10:9). Even more glorious than the material blessings and the justice that Israel enjoys in Solomon are the righteousness and lovingkindness of Yahweh.
And on this high note we end the seventh unit of the Bible, the readings on the establishment of the monarchy in Israel, that extend from Ruth 1 through 1 Kings 10. How different these are than the book of Judges! Yahweh redeemed Israel from the spiral of spiritual decline by establishing His anointed (David, and then Solomon) in His chosen city (Jerusalem), by joining him with a faithful priest (Zadok), by multiplying the Israelites in the Promised Land and by giving them peace and prosperity among all their neighbors. His people reflect His just dominion and enjoy the blessings of being His special treasure. May the name of Yahweh be exalted!
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