“Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, ‘Who is the Lord?’ Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonor the name of my God.”
This immediately follows Solomon asking God to give him neither poverty or riches. In his wisdom he realizes his nature would lend itself to a dangerous spiritual response in either extreme. That being said Solomon was incredibly wealthy. We also see a time when he decided to follow his own kingly desires rather than what he knew was God’s way. It cost him dearly. In “The Rise and Fsll of King Solomon” James Hughes explains, “…he was also a king who fell ruinously. His reputation became tarnished… his kingdom was divided… his achievements did not last. Solomon’s life and rule are a fascinating study of wealth and power–and their corrupting influence.” Ultimately Solomon came to understand just how insightful he was about wealths corrupting seductions. Few of us will achieve the heights of wealth he had. However by world standards most of us are very wealthy. It doesn’t take much to begin to consume our time and attention. As so many Americans over time my homes and yards became larger. The demands to furnish and upkeep grew with them. I found the time consumption and the financial needs draining. I had to reevaluate and refocus before they took my attention off why God had me here. Thankfully at my level financially that was not too difficult. I am grateful that I’ve never been tempted to steal to feed my family or pay my bills. Through my work in ministry I do understand that level of poverty. Today check your priorities and make sure nothing is pulling you away from the priorities God has for your journey. #BeTheEdge
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Jesus
