1 Kings 9-10; Psalm 119; John 7

June 29: Again in these three readings I see the paradox between the will to awaken and the need to be awakened by God. Solomon had so much leverage at his disposal, every advantage of having seen the outcome of David’s faithfulness; yet his life became a downward slide despite his wisdom. It’s not just the power to see what is right or the power to do what is right that is needed, but the will, which is also part of God’s work within us. (Philippians 2:13)

1 Kings 9-10: These two chapters continue the magnificence of Solomon’s kingdom. His annual income was the equivalent of 1.4 billion in today’s dollars. Israel enjoyed peace and wealth. Like people who follow England’s royal family, they were probably pleased that Solomon’s throne was so unique and spoke of such wealth and power. The grandeur of the Temple spoke of the high regard for God, and Solomon’s prayer was being answered in that people from other nations sought the Lord because of the fame of Solomon and his kingdom. God even appeared to him a second time and promised His eyes and heart would be upon the Temple Mount perpetually. Why, then, was Solomon persuaded to do exactly what God warned him about, to “take hold upon other gods”?

Psalm 119:113-128: If the cry of the faithful afflicted is, “when?” then what is the basis for asking for God to work? In verse 126, the Psalmist gives it: “they have made void thy law.” It’s something Jesus said to the religious leaders, that they were “making the Word of God of none effect through your tradition,” (Mark 7:13). Jesus told the people to observe and do all they told them to observe, but not to do "after their works, for they say and do not.” (Matthew 23:3) By contrast, the Psalmist “trembleth for fear of thee; and I am afraid of thy judgments.” (Psalm 119:120) He’s worn out his eyes looking for God’s salvation (Yeshua) because the fear of the Lord brought by the Law has prepared him.

John 7:1-24: This chapter underscores the spiritual nature of Jesus’ teaching. Even His brothers, who knew Him better than anyone, didn’t believe in Him. Why? In the last chapter, Jesus said that no one could come to Him except it were given to him of His Father. (John 6:44, 65) Yet all that the Father gave to Him would come, and would never be cast out, John 6:37. The skeptics who wanted bread had asked, “what must we do to work the works of God,” and Jesus answered, “believe in Him Whom He hath sent.” (John 6:28-29) Now, we have the attendees of the feast questioning His teaching. How would they know His teaching was from God? “If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.” (John 7:17) Willing submission is parallel to true faith. God draws the willing.