1 Kings 8-11

Few moments in the OT story are greater than the dedication of the temple. God “filled the temple” (8:11) with his glory. It is the high point in the history of the Kingdom of Israel as God enters his house. But Solomon recognizes that God is far greater for “the heavens... cannot contain you” (8:27).

Solomon’s reign is a mixed bag. What follows the dedication of the temple are compromised morals (9:13,15 11:1-2) ostentatious wealth (7:1, 9:26; see Deut. 17:17), and civil strife (11:26). He forgets that “there is no God like you” (8:22). Life is well-lived when we find our “rest” in God who has never failed to keep all his “good promises” (8:56).