A Shift in Focus

Solomon’s story is a sobering story. He started out with so much promise. He built the temple according to his father David's instructions. When he dedicated it, after the priests brought the Ark of the Covenant from David's tent into the Holy of Holies, the Lord revealed His glory to the young king: [T]he house was filled with a cloud . . . So that the priests could not stand to minister by reason of the cloud: for the glory of the Lord had filled the house of God. (II Chron. 5:13c KJV) Awed by the presence of God, Solomon responded with a prayer of thanksgiving and praise.

But later, when Solomon was old, his heart was consumed by his many wives—he even joined them in their pagan ceremonies. The Bible tells us, Solomon did evil in the sight of the Lord. . . . (I Kings 11:6a)

Because Solomon did not repent, judgment would not be averted; the kingdom of David was divided after Solomon’s death because Solomon shifted his focus. He lost sight of God and, as a result, he lost the favor and blessings of his youth.

Originally published August 7, 1987, and June 11, 1993.
Picture: Lois's garden, Spokane, 2009. Photo by Solveig.

The Lord Appeared to Solomon

Solomon was a newly anointed King who recognized his inexperience and his shortcomings. At the same time, Solomon loved the Lord, walking in the statues of his father David, except that he burned incense at the high places. (I Kings 3:3 NKJV)

This is one of those amazing verses. God’s law specifically told the Israelites they should not worship at the high places. The high places were remnants of pagan worship that had not been totally removed from the land. And yet, the next verses tell us, Now the king went to Gibeon to sacrifice there, for that was great high place . . . At Gibeon the Lord appeared to Solomon. . . . (vs. 4a,5a)

Why would God appear to Solomon at a high place? Why would God be pleased with the young king's request at the high place? Why would God give the young king not only wisdom to overcome inexperience and shortcomings—but material blessings as well? How could that be?

Perhaps it had something to do with the history of Gibeon. At one time the Ark of the Covenant had rested there. Perhaps people worshipped at Gibeon because it was a historic place. Although not the place of God's Presence, it served as a reminder of God's Presence.

But there is another reason. God is more concerned with attitude than form. Solomon loved God and God meets people who have sincere hearts—even if some things are out-of-order. Love for God overrules technical problems.

It is good to get the form right. We could suggest that if Solomon had known better when he was young, he might not have succumbed to the many problems that plagued him later. But God is sovereign. And He responds to humble hearts.

Originally published August 28, 1992.

A Prophetic Word

David is well-known as a shepherd, poet, musician, military leader, adulterer, city planner, and king. He united the tribes of Israel to form a viable nation. He established Jerusalem as Israel’s capital—and its centrality became a key Scriptural concept. He collected materials for the temple that his son Solomon would build and he made extensive plans for the design of the building. When he brought the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, David established temple liturgy.

Among all his accomplishments, however, David's prophetic messages are rarely emphasized. But Psalm 22, written by David, is a key prophetic image. It provides a vivid picture of Christ’s crucifixion: My God, My God, why have You forsaken me. . . ? I am poured out like water, and all My bones are out of joint . . . They pierced My hands and My feet; I can count all My bones. They look and stare at Me. They divide My garments among them, and for My clothing they cast lots. (Ps. 22:1-8 NKJV)

Jesus learned Scripture as a child and He would have frequently quoted many Old Testament passages. He must have identified with David because many prophecies identified Him as the son of David. He knew all about the accomplishments of his forbearer.

Jesus also would have been familiar with Psalm 22, and He must have understood it as a prophecy related to His death. Although the rabbis or teachers of His time did not recognize a suffereing Savior, Jesus had a greater revelation than the rabbis. He knew how Romans killed people, and He knew how He would die. He told His disciples exactly what would happen to Him.

Jesus understood and received the prophetic Word of God.

Originally published March 6, 1987.

He Gave Up His Plan

When people love God, they want to do something for Him. David had the power to do big things, and he wanted to build a temple for God’s glory. See now, he said, I dwell in a house of cedar, but the ark of God dwells inside tent curtains. (II Sam. 7:2b NKJV) As a reigning king who had won many battles, he had collected much spoil that would provide precious metals to be used in the structure. It was an exciting project. (II Chron. 22)

God understood and valued David’s intentions. But God had a different plan. While David desired to build an earthly house for God, God desired to build a spiritual house through David. God said, I will set up your seed after you, who will come from your body . . . He shall build a house for My name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. (II Sam. 7:12b,13)

David might have been disappointed. (In fact, much later, Solomon referred to his father's disappointment.) However, instead of focusing on his loss, David focused on God's promise to him for the future generations. In response to a the prophet’s Word, he gave up his heartfelt and worthy desire—his precious plan—and submitted to God. He said in his heart, As for God, His way is perfect. . . . (II Sam. 22:31a)

Originally published October 2, 1987.
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Inside the Tent

The ark of God’s presence did not have a permanent home during David’s lifetime. Before Saul and David became kings, the Israelites were a losely organized nation. The ark had rested in several locations and at one time it was even captured by the Philistines who were enemies of the Israelites. Although it had been returned, Saul had been content to leave the ark where it rested.

But the Ark of the Covenant was God’s ordained means of speaking to His people at that point in time. It was the focus of pure worship, and David determined in his heart to bring it to Jerusalem.

Moving the Ark was a monumental event—complete with tragedy, delay, blessing, and victory. David did finally succeed in bringing it all the way to Jerusalem where he had prepared a tent as temporary dwelling for it. Then he sacrificed burnt offerings and fellowship offerings before the Lord. (II Sam. 6:17 NIV)

Until David’s son Solomon built the temple, this tent housed the ark, and it was the center of worship. David wrote a psalm of thanksgiving: Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness; tremble before him, all the earth. (Ps. 96:9 NKJV)

David did not feel restricted when he worshipped before the ark. He and all who desired could experience God's presence and holiness in the special tent.

Originally published January 11, 1985.
Picture: Commercial display, Greater Twin City area, 2009. Photo by Solveig.