1 Kings 5:4

But now the LORD my God has given me rest on every side, and there is no adversary or crisis.

Study Bible

But now the LORD my God has given me rest on every side
This phrase reflects a period of peace and stability during King Solomon's reign, contrasting with the tumultuous times of his father, King David. Solomon acknowledges that this peace is a divine gift from the LORD, emphasizing the covenant relationship between God and Israel. The "rest on every side" suggests a cessation of external threats and internal strife, allowing Solomon to focus on building the temple. This peace can be seen as a fulfillment of God's promise to David in 2 Samuel 7:11, where God assures David that He will give him rest from all his enemies. Theologically, this rest prefigures the ultimate rest found in Christ, as mentioned in Hebrews 4:9-10, where believers are invited to enter God's rest through faith.

and there is no adversary
The absence of adversaries indicates a time of political stability and security. Historically, Solomon's reign was marked by diplomatic relationships and alliances, such as his marriage to Pharaoh's daughter and treaties with neighboring nations. This lack of adversaries allowed Solomon to focus on administrative and cultural advancements, including the construction of the temple. Theologically, the absence of adversaries can be seen as a type of the peace that Christ brings, as He is the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6), who ultimately defeats spiritual adversaries.

or crisis
The term "crisis" here refers to internal turmoil or significant challenges within the kingdom. Solomon's wisdom, granted by God, played a crucial role in maintaining order and justice, as seen in his famous judgment in 1 Kings 3:16-28. The absence of crisis during Solomon's reign allowed for prosperity and the flourishing of Israel. This period of peace and prosperity can be seen as a foreshadowing of the Messianic kingdom, where Christ will reign with justice and righteousness, as prophesied in Isaiah 11:1-9. Solomon's peaceful reign serves as a type of the ultimate peace and order that will be established in the new heaven and new earth.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The son of King David and Bathsheba, Solomon is the king of Israel at this time. Known for his wisdom, Solomon is tasked with building the temple for the Lord.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who has granted Solomon peace and rest from his enemies, allowing him to focus on building the temple.

3. Israel
The nation over which Solomon reigns. During his reign, Israel experiences a period of peace and prosperity.

4. Adversary
Refers to enemies or opponents. In this context, it indicates that Solomon's kingdom is free from external threats.

5. Crisis
Refers to internal turmoil or conflict. Solomon's reign is marked by stability and order.

Teaching Points

God's Provision of Peace
God is the ultimate source of peace and rest. Just as He provided Solomon with a time of peace to accomplish His purposes, He can provide us with peace in our lives to fulfill His will.

Fulfillment of God's Promises
The peace Solomon experienced was a fulfillment of God's promise to David. This teaches us that God is faithful to His promises, and we can trust Him to fulfill His word in our lives.

Preparation for God's Work
Times of peace and rest are opportunities to prepare for the work God has called us to do. We should use these times wisely to build and strengthen our spiritual lives.

The Importance of a Peaceful Environment
A peaceful environment is crucial for accomplishing significant tasks. We should strive to create peace in our surroundings to focus on God's work.

Spiritual Rest in Christ
The rest Solomon experienced is a shadow of the spiritual rest we find in Christ. We are invited to enter into this rest by trusting in Jesus and His finished work on the cross.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Solomon's experience of peace and rest reflect God's faithfulness to His promises?

2. In what ways can we seek God's peace in our own lives, especially during times of turmoil?

3. How can we use times of peace and rest to prepare for the work God has called us to do?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to create a peaceful environment in our homes and communities?

5. How does the concept of rest in 1 Kings 5:4 relate to the spiritual rest offered to us in Christ, as described in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Chronicles 22:9
This verse prophesies that Solomon will be a man of peace and rest, and it connects to 1 Kings 5:4 by showing the fulfillment of God's promise.

Psalm 72
A psalm attributed to Solomon, which speaks of a reign characterized by peace and justice, reflecting the conditions described in 1 Kings 5:4.

Hebrews 4:9-10
Discusses the concept of rest for the people of God, drawing a parallel to the rest Solomon experienced, which foreshadows the spiritual rest found in Christ.