2 Chronicles 8

The reign of Solomon was a time of great accomplishment for the king of Israel. He completed many building projects in Jerusalem and throughout the land. These endeavors required much toil by large numbers of laborers. Many of the workers were from the people groups who were the original inhabitants of the land of promise. But Solomon also needed soldiers in order to enforce the king's orders upon these subjugated men. These officers and fighting men came from the children of Israel.

One of the buildings that Solomon had constructed was a house for his wife, Pharaoh's daughter. He showed concern for ritual cleanliness by having a separate palace for his foreign wife, but why did the king have a foreign wife at all? The Chronicler makes no mention of any issue. The reader's focus is drawn to the greatness of the son of David who is able to rule over his territory with unquestioned authority. He led the nation not only in great building projects, but also in worshiping the Lord with sacrifices according to the Law of Moses and the directions of his father David.

Solomon was in charge. His great achievements may not win the admiration of our modern sensibilities. We would rather not see a king ruling over forced laborers. We are also less than impressed with a king who builds palaces for himself and for his foreign wife. What are we to gain from seeing the glories of this strong man?

Whether we like it or not, the Son of God is an absolute monarch. When He comes again to reign in glory, He will not come in weakness. He told His disciples of His great heavenly building projects: “I go to prepare a place for you.” We needed a strong Savior to defeat evil for us. He has purchased us with His blood. His strength has secured for us a kingdom of righteousness and peace.