The Queen of Sheba (me) visits Solomon to test his renowned knowledge. He passes the tests with ease. The Bible discusses all of Solomon's splendor...a throne was amazing...goblets were gold...nothing was silver because it wasn't valuable in that time. He had so many chariots and horses......was this good or bad? See Deuteronomy 17: 14-20.....
Major emphasis was on Solomon's riches because in Old Testament times this was evidence of God's blessing.
Chapter 11 discusses Solomon's wives....these are pagan women that introduced worship of idols...now let's stop a minute...700 wives? When would you actually see your husband? 300 concubines? Clearly, "political" matches. I love this study note:
For all his wisdom, Solomon had some weak spots. He could not say no to compromise or to lustful desires. Whether he married to strengthen political alliances to to gain personal pleasure, there foreign wives led him in to idolatry. You may have strong faith,but you also have weak spots-and that is where temptation usually strikes. Strengthen and protect your weaker areas because a chain is only as strong as its weakest link. If Solomon, the wisest man, could fall, so can you....
AMEN AND I SPEAK FROM EXPERIENCE.........I hate Satan!!!!
The adversaries then arise....the time of peace that Solomon enjoyed when he was in God's will is over.
Rehoboam, Solomon's son succeeds him.
Look what comes up from the depths of the sea.
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Now you know my mouth dropped when I read 700 wives.....good grief!!!
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