Our passage today reminds us of the "Rich and the Famous" in our society. The story of King Solomon, who history says was one of the most beloved, wise and wealthy kings of Israel, was the last ruler of the united kingdom of Israel before its division into Israel and Judah. Solomon is associated with the peak "golden age" of the independent kingdom of Israel, the source of judicial and religious wisdom, and the author of three books: Proverbs, Ecclesiastes and Song of Solomon. He was credited as the builder of the first temple of Jerusalem and a son of King David. Solomon is most famous for his wisdom, which God granted to him. He was loved and recognized by everyone. It sounds like he had it ALL!
But there was something missing in Solomon's life as in many of our lives. In our time, we see many people spending money to purchase lottery tickets; however, a news report recently stated that more than 30% of all lottery winners end up losing it all and being in a greater state of poverty than before. So the text in 1 Kings could be reminding us it's not about accumulation of all this stuff but about his kingdom as Matthew penned, "Seek FIRST God's kingdom and his righteousness, and ALL these things will be ADDED to you" (Matt. 6:33).
God, we live in a world of 1,001 distractions. We pray for focus, guidance, direction and purpose as we seek your kingdom day in and day out in our lives. AMEN.
Will G. Barnes, Clemmons, N.C.
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