2 Chronicles 8:1-6: a reflection

1At the end of twenty years, in which Solomon had built the LORD’s house and his own house, 2Solomon built the cities which Huram had given to Solomon, and caused the children of Israel to dwell there. 3Solomon went to Hamath Zobah, and prevailed against it. 4He built Tadmor in the wilderness, and all the storage cities, which he built in Hamath. 5Also he built Beth Horon the upper and Beth Horon the lower, fortified cities with walls, gates, and bars; 6and Baalath, and all the storage cities that Solomon had, and all the cities for his chariots, the cities for his horsemen, and all that Solomon desired to build for his pleasure in Jerusalem, in Lebanon, and in all the land of his dominion.

After twenty years spent building the temple and his own house, Solomon turns to an ambitious program of construction across his kingdom: storage cities, fortified towns with walls and gates, cities for his chariots and horsemen, and more. The passage lists his projects, a portrait of a reign at the height of its resources and ability, using the peace and wealth God had given to build and provide throughout the land.

There is genuine good in this. God had given Solomon wisdom, wealth, and peace, and Solomon used them to build, to fortify, to provide for his people and his kingdom. The ability to plan, organize, and construct is itself a gift, and using resources well to build something lasting is a worthy stewardship. Yet a quiet phrase near the end hints at where a heart can drift: he built all that he desired to build, for his pleasure. Even good building can begin to serve self rather than God.

The passage invites a thoughtful question about what you build and why. God gives resources, abilities, and seasons of stability, and it is good to use them to build and provide. But it is worth examining the heart behind our building. Are you constructing your life, your work, your security purely for your own pleasure, or with an eye to God and the good of others? Use well the resources God gives, but hold them in an open hand, building not merely for yourself but for his glory and the good of those around you.

Lord, you gave Solomon the resources and ability to build, and building well is a worthy use of your gifts. Yet you see the heart behind it. Search mine. Show me whether I am constructing my life merely for my own pleasure or with an eye to you and the good of others. Help me to use well the resources you give, holding them in an open hand and building for your glory. Amen.