Solomon & squash, among other things...

So right now I'm reading out of 1 Kings/2 Chronicles (essentially the same stories, different focuses) and learning more about this King Solomon. My general impression of Solomon has always been he was a wise guy who built a temple, met the Queen of Sheba, and eventually screwed up like his dad. Turns out there's much more to Solomon. Shocking, right?

While reading 2 Kings 5/2 Chronicles 2, two things stuck out to me:

1. Solomon is a sweet example of what a godly leader looks like. He consults God before anyone else and is incredibly humble.

And the house which I am about to built will be great; for greater is our god than all the gods. But who is able to build a house for Him, for the heavens and the highest heavens cannot contain Him? So who am I, that I should be able to build a house for Him, except to burn incense before Him?

2 Chronicles 2:5-6

I love that question Solomon asks himself, "who am I?" I knew Solomon was a big deal during that time period. But to get a better idea of the scope of his kingdom, I looked up the map of Solomon's kingdom in the back of my Bible. (I know, who even remembers those nifty maps in the back of our Bibles?) Holy cow, he had a LOT going on. And yet, despite all his material possessions and earthly power, Solomon remained humble before his Creator. And you won't get anywhere as a leader without humility. Don't even go there.

2. Solomon recognizes the Lord's perfect timing and acts on it!

But now the Lord my God has given me rest on every side; there is neither adversary nor misfortune. And behold, I intend to build a house for the name of the Lord my God...

1 Kings 5:4,5a

In this passage, Solomon knows that God has given him a period of peace for a reason... To finally build that (I wanted to say "badass," but thought that would be a little inappropriate in this context...?) temple for his Father! It's so easy to become comfortable with my relationship with the Lord when life is good. The more I read the Word and live life, the more I realize how especially important it is to seek Christ during the good times. (not just the bad times... Although it's good to do it then, too. Hehe.)

I could write lots more on Solomon, but that's what future posts are for! :)

Since it rainy and chilly today (I know, whaaaa??), my sister and I decided to make Ina Garten's butternut squash soup. Doesn't that just scream winter? Mmmmm. Here's the finished product:

Note the toasted coconut, spring onion, and banana chip garnish.

And for those of you who haven't toasted your own coconut.... It'll change you. Seriously. Deeeelicious.

I'll leave you with a snippet from Lion, Witch, and the Wardrobe (our family movie pick for tonight)....

Mr Tumnus: [Aslan's] not tamed, you know.

Lucy: Yes, but he is good!

Just like Jesus, woo!