Bible Chapter: II Chronicles 9 & 10

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
    We see again the lavish life Solomon lived.  The Queen of Sheba came for a visit.  She was shown everything and Solomon answered all her questions.  She was overwhelmed by the vastness of the wealth and said she hadn’t been told of even half of the greatness.  Solomon had gold drinking vessels, for silver would have been considered low class.  And, his wealth just continued to grow and grow as more precious resources were brought to him.  Many kings came to hear the wisdom that Solomon had.
    The writer of this book ended his telling of Solomon’s life.  And Rehoboam his son reigned in his place.  This is a major transition in the nation’s history.  While the nation was in prosperity under Solomon, it was also hard on the people.  They had to work hard.  When Rehoboam took over the people pleaded with him to make things easier on them and they would support him.  He refused to listen to them but listened to his young friends who said he should be even harder on the people than Solomon.  When the people heard this, there was a rebellion. This brought the splitting of the nation.  The northern kingdom was called Israel and the southern kingdom was called Judah.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
    Solomon was wealthy and wise.  People from all over came to hear what he had to say.  While it is not covered in this book, history records the sad events in Solomon’s life as he was drawn to many heathen practices.  He did not end well.  And, his wisdom didn’t seem to work down to his son, Rehoboam.  Instead of listening to wise counsel, Rehoboam became a harsh dictator.  Life under him was not good.
    The purpose of studying history is to learn from it.  I want to apply the lessons of the heart. Solomon had all the outward signs, but he didn’t live the life he should.  Rehoboam didn’t learn how to be a good leader, he became proud and overbearing.

3.  How can I help someone?
    What were the long term effects of Solomon’s life and reign?  What did Rehoboam accomplish?  I want to help people see the impact of their choices and work to have a positive eternal impact.