Previous: [[meditation on 1 kings 4|1 Kings 4]] This chapter contains an account of Solomon’s relationship and trade with Hiram, king of Tyre, and the laying of the foundation of the temple. Hiram was the king of Tyre of the Sidonians. The Sidonians were outside of the commonwealth of Israel, and often were worshippers of false gods, yet Hiram was friendly with David and Solomon. Christians should have a good reputation with those that are outside the church. Solomon was not ashamed to bear a public testimony of God’s covenant to Hiram. We should not be ashamed to speak of God’s promises to us to unbelievers. Perhaps through our testimony, unbelievers will give glory to God, like Hiram did. ”He rejoiced greatly, and said, Blessed be the Lord this day, which hath given unto David a wise son over this great people,” verse 7. “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven,” Matt. 5:16. Solomon and Hiram establish a trade relationship for the building of the temple and enriching of one another’s estates. God’s word instructs us not to make civil alliances with unbelievers, but alliances should be made for the sake of mutual interest in prosperity under the true religion. Solomon’s main aim was to build the temple. Hiram was interested in joining with him in this. Civil alliances should be made between nations for the building up of the church. There is a great example of this in the 1643 Solemn League and Covenant, where the kingdoms of England and Scotland joined together in an alliance to “endeavour to bring the Churches of GOD in the three kingdoms to the nearest conjunction and uniformity in religion, Confession of Faith, Form of Church Government, Directory for Worship and Catechising…” among many other things in the interest of the reformed faith. This league between Hiram and Solomon made a way for the temple of God to have its foundation laid in “great stones, costly stones, and hewed stones,” verse 17. The beauty of the Lord’s house began in its foundation. Likewise, the beauty of the church lies in its head, the Lord Jesus Christ, "himself being the chief corner stone," Eph. 2:19-20. Solomon wrote an entire book of the Bible describing the beauty of the Lord Jesus in the Song of Solomon. Those with spiritual eyes can see the beauty of Christ shining through his church. Though the church is made up of many sinners, her beauty is perfect through Christ’s comeliness, which he puts on her, Ezek. 16:14. As Solomon says of the church in another song, “Behold, the daughter of the King all glorious is within; And with embroideries of gold her garments wrought have been,” Psalm 45:13 (1650 Scottish Psalter). Even in times of great weakness in the church, such as our day, the spiritual sight can still perceive this beauty, and favor even the dust of Zion, Ps. 102:14. May God give me such spiritual eyes, to look on the church with love and grace, even as Christ sees it, and to have such affections toward her members as this sight will grant. Next: [[Meditation on 1 Kings 6|1 Kings 6]]