In 2 Chronicles 1, Solomon, the son of David, assumes the throne of Israel after his father's death. As he settles into his role as king, Solomon seeks to honor God and follow in his father's footsteps. He gathers his officials and leads them to the high place in Gibeon, where the tabernacle of the Lord was located.
There, Solomon offers a thousand burnt offerings on the bronze altar before God. During the night, God appears to Solomon in a dream and tells him to ask for whatever he desires. Recognizing his need for wisdom and discernment to govern the people, Solomon humbly asks for wisdom to rule with justice and understanding.
Impressed by Solomon's request, God grants him not only wisdom but also great wealth, honor, and long life. Solomon returns to Jerusalem and establishes his reign, displaying his wisdom through his judgments and decisions.
In 2 Chronicles 6-7, Solomon completes the construction of the temple and dedicates it to the Lord with a prayer of dedication. He acknowledges God's faithfulness and prays for His presence and blessings upon the people. After Solomon's prayer, fire comes down from heaven, consuming the sacrifices, and the glory of the Lord fills the temple. The people worship and offer sacrifices, and Solomon celebrates the completion of the temple. God appears to Solomon again and reaffirms His covenant, promising to hear the prayers made in the temple and to forgive the people when they repent. The chapter ends with a call for the people to walk in obedience and faithfulness to God.
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