1 Kings: Walk Before Me FaithfullySample

The kingdom of Solomon ought to remind us of much earlier promises of God to Abraham, and thus prompt us to give thanks for God’s faithfulness, even after so many centuries. Before reading these notes, read the passage again to see what connections you can see to Abraham. 

Verses 1–19 detail Solomon’s appointments for his government. Nathan, who averted the threat against Solomon in chapter 1, remains a key person along with two of his sons. Israel has sufficient food and is happy (v. 20). 

The expression ‘as numerous as the sand on the seashore’ (v. 20) reminds us of God’s promise to Abraham in Genesis 22:17, pointing us to the faithfulness of God to keep his promises even after many centuries. What a faithful God, despite all that happened, never to let his promises lapse. 

In addition, Solomon’s rule extends to the Euphrates, another reference back to Genesis 15:18. For the first time, God’s people are an internationally significant nation. Other kings bring gifts to Solomon and to Israel (v. 21). 

God’s people are also safe during Solomon’s reign (v. 25). Food and safety remind us of the covenant blessings of Deuteronomy 28. 

The final paragraph details the international fame of Solomon’s wisdom as people come from all over the world to hear him. Here is a glimpse of the nations of the world being blessed through the descendants of Abraham (Genesis 12:3). In all this God’s people, descended from Abraham, are becoming the nation they are meant to be – for the blessing of the world. 

The promises to Abraham in Genesis 12 onwards are beginning to find fulfilment in the reign of Solomon: numerous descendants, land, blessing and being a blessing to nations. What does this tell us of God’s faithfulness and purposes? How do you see these Abrahamic promises finding their greater fulfilment in Jesus? How does this encourage you with regard to God? Which promises is God faithful to today?

Reflection

The promises to Abraham – of descendants, land, blessing and nations – are the guiding threads of the Old Testament narrative.