PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: 1 Kings 9-10
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“Solomon’s horses were imported from Egypt.” (1 Kings 10:28)
God promises to bless Solomon if he is faithful, and Solomon prospers.
He accumulates great riches, many wives and horses from Egypt.
But the devil is in the details; the authors are warning us here.
“The king must not acquire great numbers of horses for himself or make the people return to Egypt to get more… He must not take many wives, or his heart will be led astray. He must not accumulate large amounts of silver and gold.” (Deuteronomy 17:16-17)
Apparently success can go to our heads, and we lose our way.
Money, sex and power; Satan seems to use all of these to mess people up.
How many successful political, social and religious leaders have crashed because of these.
I sense the Lord warning me through this: don’t get distracted and fooled by success.
Big budgets, big buildings and the peoples’ praise are not the blessing we think they are.
Success for God is being like Jesus: humble, compassionate, generous, just, merciful, kind.
Where is the enemy subtly distracting and derailing me through money, sex or power?
PRAYER
Lord, no one is immune to the enemy’s tricks. Help me not just see this problem in others, show me where I am being deceived without even realizing it.
Solomon had it all. God fulfilled His promises to Solomon – that is clearly evident! But will it go to his head? I know that is the temptation. I can get so involved in my own stuff that I forget what it is really given to me for! Solomon built up a lot of military security as well – but real security is not based on weaponry. Will pride and glory distract Solomon? Will it distract me from what’s really important? God carried through and kept his promise to place a permanent kingship on the throne of David – through Jesus! He is my King! Keep me from being distracted I pray!
Solomon was truly blessed as God had promised. Yet with the blessings come responsibilities. All gifts are to praise Him, to be used in His service. With the gifts received we need to keep our eyes on Jesus.
Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,
In the light of His glory and grace.