1 Kings·Chapter 5

How to Apply

Want to put this verse into action? Start by identifying a goal you have—maybe it’s a project, a personal goal, or something you want to achieve as part of a group. Then, make a plan! Break it down into steps, and think about who can help you along the way. Reach out to friends, family, or colleagues, and share your vision with them. Collaborate, delegate tasks, and keep communication open. This week, take at least one concrete step towards that goal, whether it’s gathering resources, making a call, or setting a meeting. Just like Solomon, you can turn your dreams into reality by working with others!

Chapter Context

Now, let’s step back and see how this fits into the bigger picture. This verse is part of a negotiation between King Solomon and Hiram of Tyre. Solomon needs materials to build a temple, a grand space for worship. Hiram, the king of Tyre, has the resources and skills to help out. So, this moment is pivotal—it shows the logistics of their partnership. Solomon is laying out the plan, making sure everything is in place. The next steps would be Hiram’s agreement and the actual building process. It’s a real turning point because it sets the stage for something monumental: the construction of the temple, which would become a central place of worship for generations. This is all about planning and collaboration, essential for any great endeavor!

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• servants - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• bring - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• down - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• sea - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• from - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• lebanon - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• make - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• rafts - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• sea - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• place - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

What steps can you take this week to gather support and resources for a goal that’s important to you, just as Solomon did for building the temple?

Related Verses

• 1 Kings 6:1 - This verse describes the beginning of the temple's construction, connecting directly to the preparations in our verse.
• Proverbs 15:22 - This verse talks about the importance of seeking advice and planning, much like what Solomon is doing here.
• Isaiah 40:3 - This is a prophecy about preparing a way, much like how Solomon prepares for building the temple, showing the significance of preparation in all endeavors.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in 1 Kings 5:9. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Divine Favor, Wisdom and Leadership, Alliances and Cooperation, Temple Construction, Labor and Organization, Provision and Reciprocity

Key Verses

1 Kings 5:5, 1 Kings 5:12, 1 Kings 5:13, 1 Kings 5:18

Historical Context

This chapter occurs during the early reign of Solomon, who succeeded David as king of Israel. The significance of the temple construction is rooted in the desire to establish a permanent dwelling place for the Lord, reflecting the culmination of David's vision. Solomon's ability to secure resources and labor demonstrates his diplomatic skills and the cooperative spirit between Israel and Tyre, marking a period of peace and prosperity. The chapter sets the stage for the monumental task ahead and foreshadows the centrality of the temple in Israel’s religious life, as well as the complexities of leadership and governance.