1 KINGS 9
Assurance. We dedicate, but only God can consecrate (sanctify) what we give Him. It is important to hear from God when a task has been completed, lest there be a letdown that can lead to discouragement (1 Kings 19). The phrases “My name . . . My eyes . . . My heart” (v.
Admonition. Because He loves us, God warns us not to disobey Him. Solomon did not heed this warning, and God kept His promise and sent discipline. God would rather destroy His holy temple than permit His people to pollute it with their sin.
Agreement. Solomon was a successful maker of treaties with the gentiles, and that ability helped to keep Israel out of war. However, there was a price to pay and a constant danger to avoid. Ultimately, Solomon was controlled by the gods of those nations (1 Kings 11).
Achievement. But everything looked grand as Solomon built buildings, walls, and ships and increased the wealth of the nation. They needed the warning of Revelation 3:17–18. The spiritual life of the nation was gradually decaying behind the veneer of prosperity.