1. A visit from the Queen of Sheba (1-13)

The queen of Sheba visited Solomon to test his wisdom and to see his achievements. She was, herself, very wealthy and likely accomplished. She came with lavish gifts but what she learned and experienced far exceeded her expectations. No question was too hard for Solomon. Solomon's palace, his offerings and his treasures overwhelmed her. The LORD had abundantly blessed Israel and given Solomon the responsibility to maintain justice and righteousness.

2. Solomon's gold and horses (14-29)

King Solomon was greater than all the other kings of the earth. The author points out, though, that the king accumulated more gold than he could realistically use. He also acquired many horses to build up his military. These were symptoms of a heart straying from God. God had warned that Israel's king should not do these things. (Dt 17:16,17) Solomon was more interested in wealth and power than in heeding God's word.