Solomon and God’s Joy Focus (Bible Story)

Once Solomon became king, he offered one thousand sacrifices of burnt offerings to God (2 Chronicles 1:6). The word offering means to draw near or approach. The smoke from it ascended to heaven, and God called it a soothing aroma to the Lord (Leviticus 1:9). Solomon must have slaved over the fire for hours to offer that many offerings. He burned the entire animal. It took time and strength.

After the sacrifice, God appeared to Solomon and offered to give him anything he wanted. Solomon asked for wisdom and an understanding heart to rule God’s people. As ruler, he wanted to align his heart with God’s purpose for him. God chose Solomon to build a house for Him, the temple.

God blessed Solomon with wisdom and much more. Solomon not only followed God’s purpose as a ruler, but in doing so he affected the people greatly. Solomon oversaw the construction of the temple and personally made the furniture for it (1 Kings 7:48). He and the people offered countless sacrifices (1 Kings 8:5) and had the Ark of the Covenant brought into the temple. Then God’s glory filled the house of the Lord (1 Kings 8:11). The day continued with the dedication and benediction of the temple and with blessing the people.

At the end of many days, Solomon sent the people home. They left joyful with happy hearts, thankful for God’s goodness shown to them. In following God’s purpose, Solomon brought joy to all the people he ruled.

Choose Joy Today: Follow God’s purpose, and let God use you to bring joy to others.