Bible Study - Wisdom of Solomon

Last week we read 1 Kings 1-6 and 2 Chronicles 1-3. Solomon's prayer asking God for wisdom in 1 Kings 3 provided much to discuss. The verse that most stuck out to us was 1 Kings 3:9. It is as follows from the New Living Translation, "[...] 9 Give me an understanding heart so that I can govern your people well and know the difference between right and wrong. For who by himself is able to govern this great people of yours?" We saw how David's reign was full of conflict in 1 and 2 Samuel. Solomon's reign began with familial conflict, but was overall peaceful. This is seen most in his quiet moments praying to God. He begins by asking for wisdom to better lead the people of Israel.

We see a continuation of Solomon's wisdom in this week's chapters, 1 Kings 7-10 and 2 Chronicles 4-9, as well as the beginning of his temptations. In Solomon's Prayer of Dedication, he praises God after the work of building God's temple has been completed. In the New Living Translation , we read, 23 [...] "O LORD, God of Israel, there is no God like you in all of heaven above or on the earth below. You keep your covenant and show unfailing love to all who walk before you in wholehearted devotion. 24 You have kept your promise to your servant David, my father. You made that promise with Your own mouth, and with Your own hands You have fulfilled it today [...]". Unlike Saul, Solomon is forthright with his praise, and in turn, God aides him in his kingship.