Twenty-first and Final in the Solomon Series

This series of posts began with these words: O Solomon, Solomon, from the heights to the depths, and then back to a level place, but never again to the heights?

I believe Solomon did attain to great heights after his sinful exploits; that is, we will see him in heaven. Some who have studied his life have their doubts. However, God disciplines those whom He loves, and Solomon was disciplined. Also, we have the evidence of his repentance in the book of Ecclesiastes.

There are numerous studies that could be pursued to further explore Solomon's life and influence on Israel and to learn from his writings. In Ecclesiastes 10-12 you will find exhortations to greater diligence and soberness of spirit.

In Ecc 12:12, we read that…"because the preacher was wise, he still taught the people knowledge; yea, he gave good heed, and sought out, [and] set in order many proverbs." Does that suggest that some of the Proverbs were conceived after Solomon was chastised for his sinful harem? There are many verses in the book of Proverbs that warn against illicit relations. Pro 5:3-5 is one example: For the lips of a strange woman drop [as] an honeycomb, and her mouth [is] smoother than oil: But her end is bitter as wormwood, sharp as a twoedged sword. Her feet go down to death; her steps take hold on hell.

Was Solomon stating what he learned first-hand? Only a Bible scholar with thorough knowledge of chronologies could answer this question.

We have looked at many Scriptures in this study of Solomon, but not at his Proverbs. How could we end a series on Solomon without reading some of these?

• The fear of the LORD [is] the beginning of knowledge: [but] fools despise wisdom and instruction. 1:7
• Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. 3:5, 6
• My son, despise not the chastening of the LORD; neither be weary of his correction: For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son [in whom] he delighteth. 3:11,12
• Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it [are] the issues of life. 4:23
• These six [things] doth the LORD hate: yea, seven [are] an abomination unto him: A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, A false witness [that] speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren. 6:16-19
• He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes. 13:24
• In the fear of the LORD [is] strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge. 14:26
• A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger. 15:1
• Pride [goeth] before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall. 16:18
• The name of the LORD [is] a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe. 18:10
• A [good] name [is] rather to be chosen than great riches, [and] loving favour rather than silver and gold.22:1

These proverbs remind us of Solomon:

• Mercy and truth preserve the king: and his throne is upholden by mercy. 20:28
• [It is] better to dwell in a corner of the housetop, than with a brawling woman in a wide house. 21:9
• Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. 22:6

Well, perhaps he will depart, but he will also return.

And finally, from Ecclesiastes 12:11, The words of the wise [are] as goads, and as nails fastened [by] the masters of assemblies, [which] are given from one shepherd.