It took Solomon thirteen years, however, to complete the construction of his palace. 1 Kings 7:1
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Solomon spent seven years building the temple (1 Kings 6:38), but thirteen years building his own house. The temple was glorious, but it seems that Solomon wanted a house that was more glorious. It seems like Solomon’s priority for his own personal comfort and luxurious tastes was higher than for God’s house. Solomon’s house was magnificent (v6-12). And at the end of a detailed description of Solomon’s palace, the writer, almost as an afterthought, mentions that some of the great architectural features of the palace were also found in the temple. It seems like, as great as the temple was, Solomon’s palace was better.
When Solomon made his palace more spectacular than the temple, it said something about his values. Old Europe has many magnificent churches and cathedrals and that reflected the values of the people of those times. Most magnificent buildings in today’s world are used for business, shopping, or entertainment and that says something about our values. God reminds us to give careful thought to our ways in Haggai 1 and speaks powerfully to those who think more about their house than they do for the house of God.
Solomon finished the work of building the temple. But the work of spreading the gospel is never complete for a Christian. The Bible says the harvest is plenty and the laborers are few (Luke 10:2). There is much to be done yet to build the church of God today.
What priority do God and His work have in your life?
Lord, may I never put anything above my love for you, I pray.
Extended Reading — 1 Kings 7; 2 Chronicles 4
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