2 Chronicles 1
-This historical narrative book that details primarily the
Kingdom of Judah begins with the establishment of King Solomon over the united
Kingdom of Israel, who was exalted by the LORD God of David, his father and
great king. Solomon and the leadership assembly of the nation go up to the
north to Gibeon, where God’s tent of meeting from the time of Moses was now
located. The text describes how there is a split with this tent and the Ark of
the Covenant, which, if we will remember, had been taken from Kiriath-jearim by
David to the temporary place made for it in Jerusalem (1 Chronicles 13,
15:25-28, 2 Chronicles 1:4). While in Gibeon after offering a thousand burnt offerings
on the alter to the LORD, Solomon is contacted by God in the night, and the
LORD said to him, “Ask what I shall give you (2 Chronicles 1:7).” Rather than
typical and superficial things like riches, wealth, honor, the lives of
enemies, or long life, Solomon asked for knowledge and wisdom so that he would
rule the people of God well (2 Chronicles 1:8-10). God answered his request and
gave him the knowledge and wisdom, plus He gave him the riches, wealth, and honor
such as no king before or after in Israel (2 Chronicles 1:11-12). Kind of nice,
right?
-So Solomon went back to Jerusalem and reigned over Israel amassing
a plethora of chariots and horsemen, gold, silver, and cedars (2 Chronicles 1:13-15).
They imported horses from Eygpt and Kue with wise trade and exported to the kings
of the Hittites and Aram (Syria), (2 Chronicles 1:16-17).
-*Application* The presence of the LORD is also with us asking
us these kinds of question when we think about it. It is the LORD’s desire to bless
you as you seek him with all your heart for the right things with the right motives
(Deuteronomy 4:29-31, Jeremiah 29:11-13, Matthew 7:7). The great thing about our
God is that when we have the right heart for Him, He gives above and beyond what
we ask for in untold blessings and abundance. This is not only the canonical tie
between 1st and 2nd Chronicles, it should be our desire in
the here and now. Seek the knowledge and wisdom of God, which starts with the fear
(reverential awe, respect, honor) of Him (Proverbs 1:7; 9:10).
Verse to Memorize: 2
Chronicles 1:10
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