Solomon accomplished everything he set his heart to do, and he did many good things. But he crossed the line when it came to marrying foreign wives. Solomon married 700 wives of royal birth in addition to having 300 concubines. He used his power to marry or possess any woman he desired. Instead of having a shepherd heart for foreigners, Solomon used them for his own pleasure and enslaved others (9:21). Solomon’s heart was led away from God and towards the lusts of more power, riches, and pleasure, and he built altars to their detestable gods.

Because of Solomon’s idolatry, the glory and splendor of his kingdom would be a fleeting memory, soon to be torn away. Solomon’s life and legacy are forever tainted with his lack of restraint, lack of repentance, and lack of real wisdom to bring God’s shepherd heart to the whole world. What if things were to be different? What if someone were to come to finally bring God’s kingdom on earth?
Application: Lord, forgive me for my sins, and thank you for sending your son, Jesus, to embody your love and bring your kingdom to earth.
One Word: Love God, not idols