1 Kings 10

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. X.—So respectable is true wisdom, that one cannot purchase it too dear, or fetch it too far: nor hath God confined it to one sex more than another. And such as have real knowledge should delight in the communication of it. But especially let us observe that God on every occasion has taken delight to prefigure the gathering of the Gentiles to Jesus Christ, in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. Good order in families, courts, and kingdoms, is extremely amiable and useful: and to enjoy the converse of such as are wise in the things of God is a great and unspeakable mercy: but God, who is the author of all our mercies, deserves the praise of them all. Mutual presents are pledges of friendship: but happiest of all is friendship with God. Prosperity in earthly enjoyments shall attend the active honouring of him, if for the real good of his people, but the most certain prosperity of soul. The Almighty himself is their gold; and they shall have plenty of silver. But in these labours, these glories of Solomon, let me contemplate the infinitely greater one, even Jesus Christ, our Prince of peace. He is JEDIDIAH, the darling of the Lord. His birth is our consolation against griefs and woes unnumbered. He is infinitely peaceful, prudent, and wise; and to him every thing is naked and open. Notwithstanding oppositions innumerable, he was solemnly chosen, anointed, and enthroned, by his Father. Justly he punishes the guilty and rewards the virtuous, particularly such as have favoured his cause in distress. Wisely he judges his subjects, and will judge the world. In infinite wisdom he endites and applies his revelations of truth. At infinite expense he builds the temple of his church, and consecrates her to God by his great sacrifice of himself, and his prevalent intercession. Plentifully he enriches and prudently he governs his people in his extensive dominions. Great is the peace, the safety, the glory, of his reign; and no report can sufficiently describe his glory and wisdom. Happy they who are his servants, behold his beauty, and for ever inquire reverently in his temple! And blessed be the Lord that multitudes, chiefly of Gentile sinners, are brought to him, admire his excellency, and labour in his service: nay, captivated with his love, grace, and beauty, abide in his house for ever. 2