“Now Hiram king of Tyre sent his servants to Solomon when he heard that they had anointed him king in place of his father, for Hiram always loved David. And Solomon sent word to Hiram, ‘You know that David my father could not build a house for the name of the Lord his God because of the warfare with which his enemies surrounded him, until the Lord put them under the soles of his feet. But now the Lord my God has given me rest on every side. There is neither adversary nor misfortune. So I intend to build a house for the name of the Lord my God, as the Lord said to David my father, “Your son, whom I will set on your throne in your place, shall build the house for my name.” Now therefore command that cedars of Lebanon be cut for me. My servants will join your servants, and I will pay you such wages as you set, for you know that there is no one among us who knows how to cut timber like the Sidonians.’
“As soon as Hiram heard the words of Solomon, he rejoiced greatly and said, ‘Blessed be the Lord this day, who has given to David a wise son to be over this great people.’ And Hiram sent to Solomon, saying, ‘I have heard the message that you have sent to me. I am ready to do all you desire in the matter of cedar and cypress timber… And you shall meet my wishes by providing food for my household…’ And the Lord gave Solomon wisdom, as he promised him. And there was peace between Hiram and Solomon, and the two of them made a treaty…
“King Solomon sent and brought Hiram from Tyre… He was full of wisdom, understanding, and skill for making any work in bronze. He came… and did all his work.” 1 Kings 5:1-8,9c,12; 7:13-14
Solomon was not the first but the promised son of King David, the one to bear the seed of Christ. In merciful favor and answer to his prayer, God inspired him to interact with wisdom and grace. His father’s good friend became his good friend through an appreciation of talent, resources, and authority. Their relationship would manifest mutual respect and generous kindness that resulted in building a magnificent temple to God’s glory. (2 Samuel 7:11-13,16; 1 Kings 1:30; 6:7,11-14; 8:10-11)
Treating others well in the name of honoring God and His people always brings Him glory. Civil communication, uplifting benediction, and graciousness demonstrate Christ- likeness the world needs. Carrying on generational friendships bestows homage to loved ones across years and blesses all involved. (Exodus 20:12; 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13)
How willing are we to extend welcome and value to friends of loved ones? To invest in and embrace another generation of individuals distinct from us? Are we taking time to know them, to appreciate their experience and talents, or are we jaded with self-interest, prejudice, or skepticism? Do we take enough interest to offer commitment that benefits them? With whom will we engage to foster the richness of generational love? (1 Kings 12:6-13; Proverbs 11:25)
Lord, help me value and foster fruitful friendships with others from varied connections, blessing them as fellow image- bearers worthy of honor.
As the rain and snow 