Old age brings a sense of fulfilment if you’re lucky, a sense of disgust and failure of not. Both are present in Ecclesiastes. But what about Solomon?
Anarchy of the world
Ecclesiastes 10:1-20
Wise advice
Ecclesiastes 11:1-6
Advice to young people
Ecclesiastes 11:7-12:8
An optimistic conclusion
Ecclesiastes 12:9-14
Solomon’s death
1 Kings 11:41-43, 2 Chronicles 9:29-31
His descendants
1 Chronicles 3:10-24
The 12 tribes
Genesis 35:23-26, 1 Chronicles 2:1-2
Judah and his lineage
1 Chronicles 4:1-14, 16-23
Hezron to David
Ruth 4:19-22
Hezron to David’s nephews
1 Chronicles 2:9-17
“Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind.” (Ecclesiastes 12:13) After everything, Ecclesiastes comes to a very orthodox conclusion. This is what leads me to believe that much of what he said was tongue in cheek. Worldly-wise, world-weary, in the end he declares that there is no point trying to outguess God.
Just do what he tells you.
So now we return to Solomon’s story. Chronicles skips straight from his glory days to his death, and even the Kings narrative is brief in reporting his misdemeanours. Was his reign a disappointment, or was it so good and peaceful that there was nothing to report?
Tuesday 31 May 2011
Monday 30 May 2011
What does it mean, "point your browser"?
It's Bank Holiday, and I thought I'd try and understand a few arcane things about the internet.
Sometimes I think I'm really quite good with computers, and pretty knowledgeable. Then along comes something that makes me feel like I should go back to my quill and pot of ink.
This blog is powered by Blogger, and it's delightfully simple.
I wanted to create a church website using Blogger, and did for a while, but discovered I couldn't upload audio files, so my dream of podcasting sermons fell by the wayside.
So I tried Wordpress, and after a lot of effort, more or less got things back to how they looked under Blogger.
But I discovered I've got a 2Mb limit on media files.
No problem, said the help. Just edit your php.ini file.
What's one of them?
Why does nobody else on the entire internet have any trouble finding their php.ini file??
Or if they do, why do they post questions that are too technical to follow?
Surely it's not that hard??
Sometimes I think I'm really quite good with computers, and pretty knowledgeable. Then along comes something that makes me feel like I should go back to my quill and pot of ink.
This blog is powered by Blogger, and it's delightfully simple.
I wanted to create a church website using Blogger, and did for a while, but discovered I couldn't upload audio files, so my dream of podcasting sermons fell by the wayside.
So I tried Wordpress, and after a lot of effort, more or less got things back to how they looked under Blogger.
But I discovered I've got a 2Mb limit on media files.
No problem, said the help. Just edit your php.ini file.
What's one of them?
Why does nobody else on the entire internet have any trouble finding their php.ini file??
Or if they do, why do they post questions that are too technical to follow?
Surely it's not that hard??
Day 151: Thoughts about life
Although not many people seriously think that Solomon wrote Ecclesiastes, it’s fascinating to read it as if he did. The life which stared out so promisingly, ends in world weariness and despair, yet still has the spark of insight and wisdom that was Solomon’s greatest gift.
Riches and poverty
Ecclesiastes 5:8-20
Man’s inevitable end
Ecclesiastes 6:1-12
Incurable evil of man
Ecclesiastes 7:1-29
Mystery of divine providence
Ecclesiastes 8:1-17
World’s wrong values
Ecclesiastes 9:1-18
Looking back on his life, the Preacher finds it all to be pointless. “who knows what is good for a person in life, during the few and meaningless days they pass through like a shadow? Who can tell them what will happen under the sun after they are gone?” (6:12) What’s the point in trying hard? What’s the point in wisdom? Everyone ends in the same way, so why bother to be good?
And yet, for all this pessimism, there is a feeling that this isn’t really what he means. Other passages say, you might as well enjoy it while you’ve got it, try hard, do your best, what have you got to lose? “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the realm of the dead, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom.” (9:10)
So he’s not completely in despair. He’s not suicidal. But what is he really saying? What does this man actually think?
Riches and poverty
Ecclesiastes 5:8-20
Man’s inevitable end
Ecclesiastes 6:1-12
Incurable evil of man
Ecclesiastes 7:1-29
Mystery of divine providence
Ecclesiastes 8:1-17
World’s wrong values
Ecclesiastes 9:1-18
Looking back on his life, the Preacher finds it all to be pointless. “who knows what is good for a person in life, during the few and meaningless days they pass through like a shadow? Who can tell them what will happen under the sun after they are gone?” (6:12) What’s the point in trying hard? What’s the point in wisdom? Everyone ends in the same way, so why bother to be good?
And yet, for all this pessimism, there is a feeling that this isn’t really what he means. Other passages say, you might as well enjoy it while you’ve got it, try hard, do your best, what have you got to lose? “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the realm of the dead, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom.” (9:10)
So he’s not completely in despair. He’s not suicidal. But what is he really saying? What does this man actually think?
Sunday 29 May 2011
Day 150: the contradictions of life
Time for the contrary, curmudgeonly, grumpy old man of the Bible - the preacher of Ecclesiastes. This is Victor Meldrew writ large!
Wisdom is vain
Ecclesiastes 1:12-18
Emptiness of pleasure
Ecclesiastes 2:1-3
Vanity of material wealth
Ecclesiastes 2:4-11
Result of wisdom and folly
Ecclesiastes 2:12-26
A time for everything
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
Weariness of life
Ecclesiastes 3:9-22
The foolishness of trusting in riches
Psalm 49:1-20
Oppressions and inequalities of life
Ecclesiastes 4:1-16
Warning against rash promises
Ecclesiastes 5:1-7
The mood of “the preacher” who wrote Ecclesiastes is the absolute opposite to that of the Chronicler who wrote in loving detail about the splendour of Solomon’s temple. Pouring out wealth in extravagant worship to God filled the Chronicler with delight, but the world weary preacher describes it all as meaningless and pointless.
Everything seems meaningless without God, which makes this book chime with the godless attitude of many in the world today. But the preacher is more subtle than that - he has a self-deprecating style that doesn’t ignore God, but sees through the blandishments of wealth.
He has a sense of justice and truth, he has a wisdom that is worth listening to, but take his words out of context and you could easily make him say the opposite of so much else that the Bible proclaims.
Read with care!
Psalm 49 is a perfect foil for this, speaking of “the fate of those who trust in themselves.” As it says in its conclusion: “People who have wealth but lack understanding are like the beasts that perish.”
Wisdom is vain
Ecclesiastes 1:12-18
Emptiness of pleasure
Ecclesiastes 2:1-3
Vanity of material wealth
Ecclesiastes 2:4-11
Result of wisdom and folly
Ecclesiastes 2:12-26
A time for everything
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
Weariness of life
Ecclesiastes 3:9-22
The foolishness of trusting in riches
Psalm 49:1-20
Oppressions and inequalities of life
Ecclesiastes 4:1-16
Warning against rash promises
Ecclesiastes 5:1-7
The mood of “the preacher” who wrote Ecclesiastes is the absolute opposite to that of the Chronicler who wrote in loving detail about the splendour of Solomon’s temple. Pouring out wealth in extravagant worship to God filled the Chronicler with delight, but the world weary preacher describes it all as meaningless and pointless.
Everything seems meaningless without God, which makes this book chime with the godless attitude of many in the world today. But the preacher is more subtle than that - he has a self-deprecating style that doesn’t ignore God, but sees through the blandishments of wealth.
He has a sense of justice and truth, he has a wisdom that is worth listening to, but take his words out of context and you could easily make him say the opposite of so much else that the Bible proclaims.
Read with care!
Psalm 49 is a perfect foil for this, speaking of “the fate of those who trust in themselves.” As it says in its conclusion: “People who have wealth but lack understanding are like the beasts that perish.”
Saturday 28 May 2011
Day 149: Solomon’s backsliding
I can’t say I’m too sorry to be finishing Proverbs, but getting back to Solomon’s story does mean the beginning of the decline. I know that things will never be as good again for the Israelites, so it’s with a slightly heavy heart that I return to 1 Kings.
More wise advice
Proverbs 29:1-27
The words of Agur
Proverbs 30:1-6
The way of moderation
Proverbs 30:7-9
More proverbs
Proverbs 30:10-33
Solomon’s backsliding
1 Kings 11:1-13
His adversaries: Hadad
1 Kings 11:14
Rezon
1 Kings 11:23-25
Jeroboam
1 Kings 11:26-40
Unhappy condition of backsliders
Ecclesiastes 1:1-11
Listening to Agur takes me back to reading Job - there’s something about his tone of voice that reminds me of listening to Job’s friends.
And now getting back to the story of Solomon, we find him collecting wives like he collected wealth and prestige. And his wives are not wiling to give up their gods, just because they’ve accepted Solomon’s patronage. No problem, says Solomon, I’ll build you places to worship your gods right here. I’ll even worship them with you. So God announces that the kingdom will be divided, a good-looking, able and popular man (Jeroboam) will be the cause of a revolt against the king - where have we heard that before? - and only one tribe will be left loyal to the line of David.
Now we turn to Ecclesiastes, which has long been my favourite bit of Wisdom literature. Why? There something about this book that doesn’t take itself too seriously. I find the rest of Wisdom literature leaves me cold - it seems worthy but dull. But I imagine the writer of Ecclesiastes to be an old man who always has his tongue in his cheek, saying things to get a reaction, not necessarily because he believes them.
What? There’s a bit in the Bible that’s saying things just to get a reaction? And we shouldn’t necessarily believe it?
Why not?
More wise advice
Proverbs 29:1-27
The words of Agur
Proverbs 30:1-6
The way of moderation
Proverbs 30:7-9
More proverbs
Proverbs 30:10-33
Solomon’s backsliding
1 Kings 11:1-13
His adversaries: Hadad
1 Kings 11:14
Rezon
1 Kings 11:23-25
Jeroboam
1 Kings 11:26-40
Unhappy condition of backsliders
Ecclesiastes 1:1-11
Listening to Agur takes me back to reading Job - there’s something about his tone of voice that reminds me of listening to Job’s friends.
And now getting back to the story of Solomon, we find him collecting wives like he collected wealth and prestige. And his wives are not wiling to give up their gods, just because they’ve accepted Solomon’s patronage. No problem, says Solomon, I’ll build you places to worship your gods right here. I’ll even worship them with you. So God announces that the kingdom will be divided, a good-looking, able and popular man (Jeroboam) will be the cause of a revolt against the king - where have we heard that before? - and only one tribe will be left loyal to the line of David.
Now we turn to Ecclesiastes, which has long been my favourite bit of Wisdom literature. Why? There something about this book that doesn’t take itself too seriously. I find the rest of Wisdom literature leaves me cold - it seems worthy but dull. But I imagine the writer of Ecclesiastes to be an old man who always has his tongue in his cheek, saying things to get a reaction, not necessarily because he believes them.
What? There’s a bit in the Bible that’s saying things just to get a reaction? And we shouldn’t necessarily believe it?
Why not?
Friday 27 May 2011
Day 148: More Proverbs
More Proverbs?? How many are there, exactly? No - don’t answer that, it’ll only depress me.
More wise sayings
Proverbs 24: 15-34
Solomon’s later proverbs
Proverbs 25:1
Wise conduct
Proverbs 25:2-28
Other sins
Proverbs 26:1-28
Other maxims
Proverbs 27:1-27
Contrast between good and evil
Proverbs 28:1-18
The way to lasting wealth
Proverbs 28:19-28
It’s fair to say that my enthusiasm for Proverbs is waning. I’m not sure I’m learning anything new, beyond my “mosaic” image, for what the book as a whole is doing. But, every now and then one hits me with a sense of freshness and surprise: “An honest answer is like a kiss on the lips.” (Proverbs 24:26)
At their best, they’re simple, memorable and striking. I’ll remember that one, no doubt about it.
More wise sayings
Proverbs 24: 15-34
Solomon’s later proverbs
Proverbs 25:1
Wise conduct
Proverbs 25:2-28
Other sins
Proverbs 26:1-28
Other maxims
Proverbs 27:1-27
Contrast between good and evil
Proverbs 28:1-18
The way to lasting wealth
Proverbs 28:19-28
It’s fair to say that my enthusiasm for Proverbs is waning. I’m not sure I’m learning anything new, beyond my “mosaic” image, for what the book as a whole is doing. But, every now and then one hits me with a sense of freshness and surprise: “An honest answer is like a kiss on the lips.” (Proverbs 24:26)
At their best, they’re simple, memorable and striking. I’ll remember that one, no doubt about it.
Thursday 26 May 2011
Church in Wales Publishes Social Media Guidelines
Three cheers for the Church in Wales, which has published some sensible advice to its clergy and office holders on the use of social media.
The Church's website yesterday published a press release which links to the full 12 pages of guidance.
The guidance document itself doesn't assume any prior knowledge of social media (some clergy still view the answerphone with suspicion, so expecting them to have heard of Facebook is a big ask) but it adopts a positive approach to the digital realm.
There's sensible advice on confidentiality, the use of humour, encouraging joined-up thinking on communications, and there's guidance on whistle-blowing if you come across some use of social media that is clearly A Bad Thing.
It also tackles peripheral problems, saying things like, don't tweet in PCC meetings: it's considered rude, don't waste too much time online, look after your security and privacy.
How long before the Church of England catches up? Perhaps my colleagues at the Twurch of England will apply some pressure?
All we need to do is copy the Welsh church's good work.
The Church's website yesterday published a press release which links to the full 12 pages of guidance.
The guidance document itself doesn't assume any prior knowledge of social media (some clergy still view the answerphone with suspicion, so expecting them to have heard of Facebook is a big ask) but it adopts a positive approach to the digital realm.
There's sensible advice on confidentiality, the use of humour, encouraging joined-up thinking on communications, and there's guidance on whistle-blowing if you come across some use of social media that is clearly A Bad Thing.
It also tackles peripheral problems, saying things like, don't tweet in PCC meetings: it's considered rude, don't waste too much time online, look after your security and privacy.
How long before the Church of England catches up? Perhaps my colleagues at the Twurch of England will apply some pressure?
All we need to do is copy the Welsh church's good work.
Day 147: Wise sayings
Pile up enough grains of sand, and you’ve got a mountain. The little Proverbs continue to mount up into a tower of meaning.
Honourable conduct
Proverbs 20:1-3
Wise counsel
Proverbs 20:4-21
The way of the Lord
Proverbs 20:22-30
The importance of justice
Proverbs 21:1-31
The importance of prudence
Proverbs 22:1-5
Wise teaching
Proverbs 22:6-16
The saying of wise men
Proverbs 22:17-29, 23:1-14
The blessing of a wise son
Proverbs 23:15-25
Warnings against vice
Proverbs 23:26-35
The way of wisdom
Proverbs 24:1-14
There is much today about scorning the temptations of wealth. Don’t eat too much, don’t drink too much, don’t get addicted, keep yourself lean and hungry. All sorts of things can lead us away from God - simple pleasures can fill our horizons until we lose sight of what really matters.
It’s good for me to reflect what I do instead of spending time with God. Doing my daily Bible reading has been a helpful discipline - I haven’t found myself short of time because of it, I’ve simply wasted less time online instead.
Honourable conduct
Proverbs 20:1-3
Wise counsel
Proverbs 20:4-21
The way of the Lord
Proverbs 20:22-30
The importance of justice
Proverbs 21:1-31
The importance of prudence
Proverbs 22:1-5
Wise teaching
Proverbs 22:6-16
The saying of wise men
Proverbs 22:17-29, 23:1-14
The blessing of a wise son
Proverbs 23:15-25
Warnings against vice
Proverbs 23:26-35
The way of wisdom
Proverbs 24:1-14
There is much today about scorning the temptations of wealth. Don’t eat too much, don’t drink too much, don’t get addicted, keep yourself lean and hungry. All sorts of things can lead us away from God - simple pleasures can fill our horizons until we lose sight of what really matters.
It’s good for me to reflect what I do instead of spending time with God. Doing my daily Bible reading has been a helpful discipline - I haven’t found myself short of time because of it, I’ve simply wasted less time online instead.
Wednesday 25 May 2011
Day 146: Good conduct
Proverbs continues to paint its picture of contrasts. Good versus evil, laziness versus hard work, honesty versus lies.
Wisdom, the better way
Proverbs 15:20-33
Warning against pride
Proverbs 16:1-5
The better way of life
Proverbs 16:6-26
Warning against violence
Proverbs 16: 27-33
Good conduct
Proverbs 17:1-28, 18:1-5
A fool’s words
Proverbs 18:6-9
Warnings against pride
Proverbs 18:10-14
The way of knowledge and justice
Proverbs 18:15-18
The power of the tongue
Proverbs 18:19-24
Personal conduct
Proverbs 19:1-29
With chapter 16, the contrasts change. No longer between two human ways of behaviour, one good, one bad, now it’s between God and humans. Whatever God does is right and true and everlasting, whatever humans do, falls short.
Similarly with the king - he is described in a way that represents God. He is pleased with justice and right dealing, and angered by folly and sin.
In the midst of the little pieces of mosaic are occasional gems - the verses that I know, because they are often quoted. These are the pieces that shine with their own light, that we admire for themselves, but it is better to let the whole thing wash over you, and begin to sense the bigger picture.
Wisdom, the better way
Proverbs 15:20-33
Warning against pride
Proverbs 16:1-5
The better way of life
Proverbs 16:6-26
Warning against violence
Proverbs 16: 27-33
Good conduct
Proverbs 17:1-28, 18:1-5
A fool’s words
Proverbs 18:6-9
Warnings against pride
Proverbs 18:10-14
The way of knowledge and justice
Proverbs 18:15-18
The power of the tongue
Proverbs 18:19-24
Personal conduct
Proverbs 19:1-29
With chapter 16, the contrasts change. No longer between two human ways of behaviour, one good, one bad, now it’s between God and humans. Whatever God does is right and true and everlasting, whatever humans do, falls short.
Similarly with the king - he is described in a way that represents God. He is pleased with justice and right dealing, and angered by folly and sin.
In the midst of the little pieces of mosaic are occasional gems - the verses that I know, because they are often quoted. These are the pieces that shine with their own light, that we admire for themselves, but it is better to let the whole thing wash over you, and begin to sense the bigger picture.
Tuesday 24 May 2011
Day 145: The benefits of righteousness
The list of proverbs stretches out, some so obvious they hardly need to be said, some more profound or even quirky. But together, they have a powerful effect.
The benefits of righteousness (continued)
Proverbs 11:7-11
The foolishness of quarrelling and wrongdoing
Proverbs 11:12-31
The wicked and the righteous
Proverbs 12:1-11
The wise ad the foolish
Proverbs 12:12-28
Watch your words
Proverbs 13:1-6
The rich and the poor
Proverbs 13:7-25
Contrast between wise and foolish
Proverbs 14:1-35
Wisdom the better way
Proverbs 15:1-19
Proverbs is getting into its Proverbial stride now - there is a rhythm to the proverbs and a cumulative effect. The proverbs scan like poetry, and follow the Hebrew trick of parallelism. As you read great chunks of them the sum of their meaning appears greater than its parts - each examines a tiny facet of its subject: wisdom versus foolishness, righteousness versus wickedness, laziness versus hard work. And together, like a mosaic, if you stand back and look from a distance, the picture forms.
Their subject and setting are homespun, but they have been crafted by one hand - made into a greater whole. Whether it was Solomon or someone else, the writer has collected vast quantities of little sayings and arranged them together to good effect.
The benefits of righteousness (continued)
Proverbs 11:7-11
The foolishness of quarrelling and wrongdoing
Proverbs 11:12-31
The wicked and the righteous
Proverbs 12:1-11
The wise ad the foolish
Proverbs 12:12-28
Watch your words
Proverbs 13:1-6
The rich and the poor
Proverbs 13:7-25
Contrast between wise and foolish
Proverbs 14:1-35
Wisdom the better way
Proverbs 15:1-19
Proverbs is getting into its Proverbial stride now - there is a rhythm to the proverbs and a cumulative effect. The proverbs scan like poetry, and follow the Hebrew trick of parallelism. As you read great chunks of them the sum of their meaning appears greater than its parts - each examines a tiny facet of its subject: wisdom versus foolishness, righteousness versus wickedness, laziness versus hard work. And together, like a mosaic, if you stand back and look from a distance, the picture forms.
Their subject and setting are homespun, but they have been crafted by one hand - made into a greater whole. Whether it was Solomon or someone else, the writer has collected vast quantities of little sayings and arranged them together to good effect.
Monday 23 May 2011
Day 144: The Importance of Wisdom
Who exactly is Wisdom? The more this goes on, the more it seems that it’s not an attribute, but a person. The mystery draws me in and stimulates my curiosity.
Further warning against adultery
Proverbs 6:20-35
The importance of learning wisdom
Proverbs 7:1-5
The immoral woman
Proverbs 7:6-27
The nature and riches of wisdom
Proverbs 8:1-21
Wisdom at the Creation
Proverbs 8:22-31
Listen to wisdom
Proverbs 8:32-36
Wisdom and foolishness
Proverbs 9:1-18
Solomon’s proverbs
Proverbs 10:1
The benefits of righteousness
Proverbs 10:2-32, 11:1-6
There is a great contrast between two women, whose characters are painted with great detail. There is the adulteress, whose aim is to lead a man astray, and there is the figure of Wisdom, who makes her call to all to follow her ways. Interesting that both attitudes are personified as women. Perhaps it reflects the fact that in that culture, only men had a choice - women had to do what they were told, and were to a large extent under the control of their family. Or perhaps it’s just that this was written by a man.
Anyway - if anyone female wants to comment on what it feels like to read these chapters, I’d be interested!
There is the fascinating section in chapter 8 where personified wisdom appears beside God, delighting over all his work in Creation. It seems to be sailing perilously close to the wind - for a monotheistic faith to have a second figure standing so close to God. Christians delight in seeing this as a picture of Jesus, the pre-incarnate Word. Today, I’m more interested in the risks the writer was taking with his faith - coming so close to heresy. Sometimes the deepest truths teeter right on the edge of error.
Further warning against adultery
Proverbs 6:20-35
The importance of learning wisdom
Proverbs 7:1-5
The immoral woman
Proverbs 7:6-27
The nature and riches of wisdom
Proverbs 8:1-21
Wisdom at the Creation
Proverbs 8:22-31
Listen to wisdom
Proverbs 8:32-36
Wisdom and foolishness
Proverbs 9:1-18
Solomon’s proverbs
Proverbs 10:1
The benefits of righteousness
Proverbs 10:2-32, 11:1-6
There is a great contrast between two women, whose characters are painted with great detail. There is the adulteress, whose aim is to lead a man astray, and there is the figure of Wisdom, who makes her call to all to follow her ways. Interesting that both attitudes are personified as women. Perhaps it reflects the fact that in that culture, only men had a choice - women had to do what they were told, and were to a large extent under the control of their family. Or perhaps it’s just that this was written by a man.
Anyway - if anyone female wants to comment on what it feels like to read these chapters, I’d be interested!
There is the fascinating section in chapter 8 where personified wisdom appears beside God, delighting over all his work in Creation. It seems to be sailing perilously close to the wind - for a monotheistic faith to have a second figure standing so close to God. Christians delight in seeing this as a picture of Jesus, the pre-incarnate Word. Today, I’m more interested in the risks the writer was taking with his faith - coming so close to heresy. Sometimes the deepest truths teeter right on the edge of error.
Day 143: The Wisdom of moral restraint
Phew! 6 chapters of Proverbs to read today - this could cause spiritual indigestion!
Virtue of wisdom
Proverbs 1:20-33
Rewards of wisdom
Proverbs 2:1-22
Trusting God’s wisdom
Proverbs 3:1-35
Benefits of wisdom
Proverbs 4:1-27
Warnings against adultery
Proverbs 5:1-23
Caution about putting up security
Proverbs 6:1-5
Warnings against laziness
Proverbs 6:6-11
Things God hates
Proverbs 6:12-19
I love the saying, “Knowledge tells you that a tomato is a fruit, wisdom tells you not to put a tomato in a fruit salad” I first heard it from Richard Collins on Deovox. Clearly the Israelites prized wisdom. They prized it in their king, they said it was something so worth seeking after that the personified it as an almost godlike figure, appealing in the streets for followers. For them, it’s God’s best gift: “Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.” (4:7)
Virtue of wisdom
Proverbs 1:20-33
Rewards of wisdom
Proverbs 2:1-22
Trusting God’s wisdom
Proverbs 3:1-35
Benefits of wisdom
Proverbs 4:1-27
Warnings against adultery
Proverbs 5:1-23
Caution about putting up security
Proverbs 6:1-5
Warnings against laziness
Proverbs 6:6-11
Things God hates
Proverbs 6:12-19
I love the saying, “Knowledge tells you that a tomato is a fruit, wisdom tells you not to put a tomato in a fruit salad” I first heard it from Richard Collins on Deovox. Clearly the Israelites prized wisdom. They prized it in their king, they said it was something so worth seeking after that the personified it as an almost godlike figure, appealing in the streets for followers. For them, it’s God’s best gift: “Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.” (4:7)
Friday 20 May 2011
Day 141: Solomon and the Queen of Sheba
Solomon possess almost uncountable wealth. What's this going to do to him? What does wealth do to us?
Levy of forced labour
1 Kings 9:20-23, 2 Chronicles 8:7-10
Building the cities
1 Kings 9:16-19, 2 Chronicles 8:4-6
Burnt offerings
1 Kings 9:16-19, 2 Chronicles 8:12-16
Solomon’s prosperity
1 Kings 9:26-28, 10:22, 2 Chronicles 8:17-18, 9:21
The Queen of Sheba
1 Kings 10:1-13, 2 Chronicles 9:1-12
Solomon’s wealth
1 Kings 10:14-21, 27, 23-25, 2 Chronicles 1:15, 9:13-19
“Nothing was made of silver, because silver was considered of little value in Solomon's day.” (2 Chronicles 9:20)
For the first time, the kingdom of the Israelites are exposed to the dangers of the materialism. We know all about this, having lived the dream in our society relentlessly for generations. What has it done to our faith, our happiness, our mental health? Good or bad? What will it do to Solomon’s generation?
It certainly impressed the Queen of Sheba - she came to ask her most testing questions, and Solomon had answers for them all. But the opulence of his capital city impressed her probably more. The trouble is, there is no upper limit on possessions. You never have enough.
This is very apparent to me, reading the Bible in luxury and affluence, tapping away on a device that would have amazed Solomon. My laptop is over a year old now. Time I got another one?
Levy of forced labour
1 Kings 9:20-23, 2 Chronicles 8:7-10
Building the cities
1 Kings 9:16-19, 2 Chronicles 8:4-6
Burnt offerings
1 Kings 9:16-19, 2 Chronicles 8:12-16
Solomon’s prosperity
1 Kings 9:26-28, 10:22, 2 Chronicles 8:17-18, 9:21
The Queen of Sheba
1 Kings 10:1-13, 2 Chronicles 9:1-12
Solomon’s wealth
1 Kings 10:14-21, 27, 23-25, 2 Chronicles 1:15, 9:13-19
“Nothing was made of silver, because silver was considered of little value in Solomon's day.” (2 Chronicles 9:20)
For the first time, the kingdom of the Israelites are exposed to the dangers of the materialism. We know all about this, having lived the dream in our society relentlessly for generations. What has it done to our faith, our happiness, our mental health? Good or bad? What will it do to Solomon’s generation?
It certainly impressed the Queen of Sheba - she came to ask her most testing questions, and Solomon had answers for them all. But the opulence of his capital city impressed her probably more. The trouble is, there is no upper limit on possessions. You never have enough.
This is very apparent to me, reading the Bible in luxury and affluence, tapping away on a device that would have amazed Solomon. My laptop is over a year old now. Time I got another one?
Thursday 19 May 2011
Day 140: Bride and Bridegroom
We turn today to the Song of Songs. Is this about Lurve? Oh no, it’s something far deeper and more beautiful.
Love’s beginning
Song of Songs 2:1-7
Love’s absence
Song of Songs 2:8-17, 3:1-5
Love’s restoration
Song of Songs 3:6-11, 4:1-16, 5:1
Love delayed
Song of Songs 5:2-16, 6:1-3
Love’s fulfilment
Song of Songs 6:4-13, 7:1-13, 8:1-4
Love’s triumph
Song of Songs 8:5-14
Just for a change I read Song of Songs in The Message - a lively paraphrase, that works beautifully with something like this. I want to reflect on the overall impact of the whole book, rather than concentrate on the meaning of little bits of it.
It is beautiful, it brings a tear to my eye. Unlike the sort of love literature that we’re used to, it dwells on longing, rather than on consummation. My reflection is that our sexuality has been sadly distorted by porn, and that we’ve tried to take the waiting out of wanting. But we’ve taken the longing out of loving, and all we’re left with is lust.
There’s no beauty in the way we think about sexual love at the moment. Perhaps because porn follows the male arc of swift arousal, climax then ... falling asleep... to put it bluntly, we’ve closed our eyes to the beauty of desire.
Love’s beginning
Song of Songs 2:1-7
Love’s absence
Song of Songs 2:8-17, 3:1-5
Love’s restoration
Song of Songs 3:6-11, 4:1-16, 5:1
Love delayed
Song of Songs 5:2-16, 6:1-3
Love’s fulfilment
Song of Songs 6:4-13, 7:1-13, 8:1-4
Love’s triumph
Song of Songs 8:5-14
Just for a change I read Song of Songs in The Message - a lively paraphrase, that works beautifully with something like this. I want to reflect on the overall impact of the whole book, rather than concentrate on the meaning of little bits of it.
It is beautiful, it brings a tear to my eye. Unlike the sort of love literature that we’re used to, it dwells on longing, rather than on consummation. My reflection is that our sexuality has been sadly distorted by porn, and that we’ve tried to take the waiting out of wanting. But we’ve taken the longing out of loving, and all we’re left with is lust.
There’s no beauty in the way we think about sexual love at the moment. Perhaps because porn follows the male arc of swift arousal, climax then ... falling asleep... to put it bluntly, we’ve closed our eyes to the beauty of desire.
Wednesday 18 May 2011
Day 139: Building programme completed
God sends the seal of his approval - his presence in fire and cloud - into the Temple. But he gives Solomon a warning, what I have given, I can take away.
The glory of the Lord
2 Chronicles 7:1-3
Solomon’s peace offerings
1 Kings 8:62-66, 2 Chronicles 7:4-10
God, the supreme king
Psalm 99
A hymn of praise
Psalm 100
Building programme finished
1 Kings 9:1, 2 Chronicles 7:11
God warns Solomon
1 Kings 9:2-9, 2 Chronicles 7:12-22
Solomon and Hiram
1 Kings 9:10-14, 2 Chronicles 8:1-2
Hamath Zobah conquered
2 Chronicles 8:3
Solomon’s wife’s house
1 Kings 9:24, 2 Chronicles 8:11
Love’s beginning
Song of Solomon 1:1-17
From time to time God has appeared to people in fire. There was the burning bush on Mount Sinai, the pillar of cloud by day and fire by night that led them through the wilderness, God’s presence on the top of Mount Sinai that sounds from the description like a volcano. Now, fire and cloud are mentioned again, filling the Temple, receiving the sacrificial offerings, putting a seal of approval on Solomon’s work.
God has moved in.
God then speaks to Solomon, with an answer and a warning. He answers the prayer that Solomon prayed very specifically, “if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” (2 Chronicles 7:14) But he adds a warning, that if Solomon turns away from God, then he will uproot Israel and leave them ruined.
The glory of the Lord
2 Chronicles 7:1-3
Solomon’s peace offerings
1 Kings 8:62-66, 2 Chronicles 7:4-10
God, the supreme king
Psalm 99
A hymn of praise
Psalm 100
Building programme finished
1 Kings 9:1, 2 Chronicles 7:11
God warns Solomon
1 Kings 9:2-9, 2 Chronicles 7:12-22
Solomon and Hiram
1 Kings 9:10-14, 2 Chronicles 8:1-2
Hamath Zobah conquered
2 Chronicles 8:3
Solomon’s wife’s house
1 Kings 9:24, 2 Chronicles 8:11
Love’s beginning
Song of Solomon 1:1-17
From time to time God has appeared to people in fire. There was the burning bush on Mount Sinai, the pillar of cloud by day and fire by night that led them through the wilderness, God’s presence on the top of Mount Sinai that sounds from the description like a volcano. Now, fire and cloud are mentioned again, filling the Temple, receiving the sacrificial offerings, putting a seal of approval on Solomon’s work.
God has moved in.
God then speaks to Solomon, with an answer and a warning. He answers the prayer that Solomon prayed very specifically, “if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” (2 Chronicles 7:14) But he adds a warning, that if Solomon turns away from God, then he will uproot Israel and leave them ruined.
Tuesday 17 May 2011
Day 138: Solomon’s prayer
Solomon prays a remarkable prayer today. I wouldn’t have thought he had it in him. He’s not just a walking ego, intent on glorifying himself and his kingdom, he has a genuine relationship with God.
Solomon reminds God of his promises
1 Kings 8:22-26, 2 Chronicles 6:12-17
He pleads for forgiveness
1 Kings 8:27-30, 2 Chronicles 6:18-21
He prays for God’s justice
1 Kings 8:31-32, 2 Chronicles 6:22-23
He prays for mercy
1 Kings 8:33-40, 2 Chronicles 6:24-31
He asks God to answer to foreigner’s prayer
1 Kings 8:41-43, 2 Chronicles 6:32-33
Prayer for victory
1 Kings 8:44-45, 2 Chronicles 6:34-35
Prayer for Israelites
1 Kings 8:46-53, 2 Chronicles 6:36-39
His final petitions
2 Chronicles 6:40-42
Solomon’s blessing and exhortation
1 Kings 8:54-61
Solomon’s prayer is mightily impressive. Not in the way that everything else about this day is impressive. Everything else about this day might be taken as Israel’s self-aggrandizement, but not this prayer. In these words, Solomon demonstrates that he truly has a relationship with God, that he isn’t just a good statesman and a powerful magnate, he is a servant of the living God.
In these words, Solomon acknowledges that it will not always be like today, that there will be difficulties and tribulations ahead. His repeated request is “Hear from heaven.”
In other words, keep listening to us, God, don’t turn your back on us. No matter what we’re like, if we let you down, if we forget you, if we give in to temptation, then as soon as we come to our senses, give us another chance. Keep faith with us, even if we struggle to keep faith with you. It’s a human prayer, and genuine prayer, and a humble prayer. Chronicles adds to Solomon’s refrain, “your dwelling place” to make it “Hear from heaven your dwelling place,” emphasising that the Temple is not where God is, heaven is where he lives.
Chronicles has an eye for the future for what the Temple is going to turn into for the Israelites - a talisman, even an idol. Perhaps, as with Deuteronomy, some of the concerns of future generations are projected back into this prayer. That doesn’t matter, because this is a prayer for bad times as well as good, which makes it so powerful and surprising.
Today I’m more convinced about Solomon’s sincerity than I ever have been before.
Solomon reminds God of his promises
1 Kings 8:22-26, 2 Chronicles 6:12-17
He pleads for forgiveness
1 Kings 8:27-30, 2 Chronicles 6:18-21
He prays for God’s justice
1 Kings 8:31-32, 2 Chronicles 6:22-23
He prays for mercy
1 Kings 8:33-40, 2 Chronicles 6:24-31
He asks God to answer to foreigner’s prayer
1 Kings 8:41-43, 2 Chronicles 6:32-33
Prayer for victory
1 Kings 8:44-45, 2 Chronicles 6:34-35
Prayer for Israelites
1 Kings 8:46-53, 2 Chronicles 6:36-39
His final petitions
2 Chronicles 6:40-42
Solomon’s blessing and exhortation
1 Kings 8:54-61
Solomon’s prayer is mightily impressive. Not in the way that everything else about this day is impressive. Everything else about this day might be taken as Israel’s self-aggrandizement, but not this prayer. In these words, Solomon demonstrates that he truly has a relationship with God, that he isn’t just a good statesman and a powerful magnate, he is a servant of the living God.
In these words, Solomon acknowledges that it will not always be like today, that there will be difficulties and tribulations ahead. His repeated request is “Hear from heaven.”
In other words, keep listening to us, God, don’t turn your back on us. No matter what we’re like, if we let you down, if we forget you, if we give in to temptation, then as soon as we come to our senses, give us another chance. Keep faith with us, even if we struggle to keep faith with you. It’s a human prayer, and genuine prayer, and a humble prayer. Chronicles adds to Solomon’s refrain, “your dwelling place” to make it “Hear from heaven your dwelling place,” emphasising that the Temple is not where God is, heaven is where he lives.
Chronicles has an eye for the future for what the Temple is going to turn into for the Israelites - a talisman, even an idol. Perhaps, as with Deuteronomy, some of the concerns of future generations are projected back into this prayer. That doesn’t matter, because this is a prayer for bad times as well as good, which makes it so powerful and surprising.
Today I’m more convinced about Solomon’s sincerity than I ever have been before.
Monday 16 May 2011
Day 137: Dedication of the Temple
This day is the highest point in Israel’s history. What joy and delight the people must have felt today. All God’s promises have come true, and in their shining faces nothing but joy can be seen.
Final completion
1 Kings 7:51, 2 Chronicles 5:1
The dedication of the temple
1 Kings 8:1-11, 2 Chronicles 5:2-14
Dedication of the Temple 972BC
A prayer of thanks
Psalm 118: 1-4, 29
The one true God
Psalm 115
A call to praise God
Psalm 134:1-3, 135:21
A hymn of thanksgiving
Psalm 136
Solomon’s address
1 Kings 8:12-21, 2 Chronicles 6:1-11
The Chronicler is in his element. This is just the sort of stuff he loves. Pomp and circumstance, glory to God, it’s all there. At a solemn assembly, the ark is brought into the Temple and put in its place. Songs of praise fill the air, and so does something else - a cloud that drives the priests out of the Holy Place. God’s presence fills the Temple to such an extent that temporarily there is no room for anyone else. The cloud of God’s glory has descended, and everyone’s spine tingled.
Joyous, triumphant hymns of praise are sung - this is a special place, this is a special day.
Final completion
1 Kings 7:51, 2 Chronicles 5:1
The dedication of the temple
1 Kings 8:1-11, 2 Chronicles 5:2-14
Dedication of the Temple 972BC
A prayer of thanks
Psalm 118: 1-4, 29
The one true God
Psalm 115
A call to praise God
Psalm 134:1-3, 135:21
A hymn of thanksgiving
Psalm 136
Solomon’s address
1 Kings 8:12-21, 2 Chronicles 6:1-11
The Chronicler is in his element. This is just the sort of stuff he loves. Pomp and circumstance, glory to God, it’s all there. At a solemn assembly, the ark is brought into the Temple and put in its place. Songs of praise fill the air, and so does something else - a cloud that drives the priests out of the Holy Place. God’s presence fills the Temple to such an extent that temporarily there is no room for anyone else. The cloud of God’s glory has descended, and everyone’s spine tingled.
Joyous, triumphant hymns of praise are sung - this is a special place, this is a special day.
Sunday 15 May 2011
Day 136: The Temple Furnishings
With loving detail the Temple is described. Nothing is too costly, nothing is too grand for this undertaking. Solomon spends lavishly on this symbol of greatness - God’s greatness, his greatness.
The reward of obedience
Psalm 128, 1 Kings 6:36
Solomon’s buildings
1 Kings 7:1-12
Temple furnishings
1 Kings 7:15-50, 2 Chronicles 4:1-22
The description of the building of the Temple is very similar to that of the Tabernacle, but on a much more lavish scale., Solomon pours out great quantities of richness onto the Temple, and on every building and palace that he constructs. This is how you announce your greatness as a ruler for ever.
Of course, none of it really will last for ever. I’m reminded of Shelley’s poem about Ozymandias - great king whose statue is nothing but a ruin, and whose boasting inscription is nothing but hollow irony.
But I’m looking too far ahead. The Temple hasn’t become an idol yet. So far, it’s just a sign of God’s great blessing.
The reward of obedience
Psalm 128, 1 Kings 6:36
Solomon’s buildings
1 Kings 7:1-12
Temple furnishings
1 Kings 7:15-50, 2 Chronicles 4:1-22
The description of the building of the Temple is very similar to that of the Tabernacle, but on a much more lavish scale., Solomon pours out great quantities of richness onto the Temple, and on every building and palace that he constructs. This is how you announce your greatness as a ruler for ever.
Of course, none of it really will last for ever. I’m reminded of Shelley’s poem about Ozymandias - great king whose statue is nothing but a ruin, and whose boasting inscription is nothing but hollow irony.
But I’m looking too far ahead. The Temple hasn’t become an idol yet. So far, it’s just a sign of God’s great blessing.
Saturday 14 May 2011
Day 135: The Temple is built
The centre piece of Solomon’s capital city is to be a new place of worship. Solomon’s idea is to build something that will take people’s breath away when they see it - a stone representation of the greatness of God.
Shimei’s execution
1 Kings 2:39-46
A mother’s advice
Proverbs 31:1-9
God’s ideal woman
Proverbs 31:10-31
The construction of the Temple
1 Kings 6:1-10, 14-37, 2 Chronicles 3:1-14
I accidentally read about Shimei a couple of days ago - so see my comments on him back on Day 133. While David wrote psalms, Solomon wrote proverbs, so we turn to his wisdom to see what insights we can get into his character. Interesting that we start with women.
First comes some motherly advice, that conceivably had its origin with Bathsheba. It’s certainly interesting to read it in that light. Because David fell for her, all sorts of anguish and disarray came upon his household. And yet Solomon was born. So something of great value came out of it too.
The picture of the noble wife is a picture of an upper class woman of distinction - the highest that perhaps a woman could aspire to in that culture: to control her household and propel her husband to a place of honour.
Chronicles is keen to emphasise that the Temple is being built in accordance with God’s express command. Unlike the tabernacle, where its details are recorded first as instructions from God, to be carried out to the letter, the description of the Temple gives us the details all right, but not up front. Chronicles seeks to reassure us that God had given the instructions, Kings doesn’t bother, so I wonder how much of it was Solomon’s invention. I don’t see anything wrong in that - God had given Solomon the wisdom, why shouldn’t he employ it to make something fit for worship?
But there’s always been a residual fear in the Israelites - if they don’t get things to do with God scrupulously correct, then they’ll suffer for it.
So the Tabernacle on steroids takes shape, and at last there is a centrepiece of worship in the heart of the kingdom of Israel.
Shimei’s execution
1 Kings 2:39-46
A mother’s advice
Proverbs 31:1-9
God’s ideal woman
Proverbs 31:10-31
The construction of the Temple
1 Kings 6:1-10, 14-37, 2 Chronicles 3:1-14
I accidentally read about Shimei a couple of days ago - so see my comments on him back on Day 133. While David wrote psalms, Solomon wrote proverbs, so we turn to his wisdom to see what insights we can get into his character. Interesting that we start with women.
First comes some motherly advice, that conceivably had its origin with Bathsheba. It’s certainly interesting to read it in that light. Because David fell for her, all sorts of anguish and disarray came upon his household. And yet Solomon was born. So something of great value came out of it too.
The picture of the noble wife is a picture of an upper class woman of distinction - the highest that perhaps a woman could aspire to in that culture: to control her household and propel her husband to a place of honour.
Chronicles is keen to emphasise that the Temple is being built in accordance with God’s express command. Unlike the tabernacle, where its details are recorded first as instructions from God, to be carried out to the letter, the description of the Temple gives us the details all right, but not up front. Chronicles seeks to reassure us that God had given the instructions, Kings doesn’t bother, so I wonder how much of it was Solomon’s invention. I don’t see anything wrong in that - God had given Solomon the wisdom, why shouldn’t he employ it to make something fit for worship?
But there’s always been a residual fear in the Israelites - if they don’t get things to do with God scrupulously correct, then they’ll suffer for it.
So the Tabernacle on steroids takes shape, and at last there is a centrepiece of worship in the heart of the kingdom of Israel.
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