Today’s passage: 2 Chronicles 1:1-17
Helpful thoughts:
- This book carries directly on from the conclusion of 1 Chronicles. The book will cover the time of Solomon’s reign to the exile and restoration (Much the same time frame as 1 and 2 Kings).
- Solomon begins his reign by worshiping and inquiring of the Lord. He asks for wisdom and knowledge to serve well. His initial heart at this time is to see his position in the nation as one of great service, not a means to personal wealth and ease.
- The Tabernacle was still located in Gibeon until the Temple was built.
- God gave Solomon what he requested, and more. The beginning of God’s fulfilment of His promises is recorded in the latter portion of the chapter.
Questions to consider:
- You might remember, toward the end of 1 Chronicles, David made a public declaration of Solomon’s need to grow in wisdom…David and all Israel had just heard that Solomon was young and inexperienced. If Solomon had been clamoring for his own glory and credibility, how might he have begun his reign? What part does humility play in good leadership and growth in our godliness?
- Where did Solomon turn for wisdom and knowledge? Why is your reading through the Bible and seeking the Lord in prayer so much more useful than scouring the world’s attempts at seeking knowledge? What grid must we run what we learn out of the world through in order to rightly evaluate it?
- Why was what Solomon asked God for so much better than wealth, ease, or glory in this world? What glory and kingdom do Christians seek (Matthew 6:33)?