1 Kings 5:1

1 Kings 5:1. Hiram king of Tyre— It was at the beginning of Solomon's reign that Hiram sent ambassadors, to condole with Solomon upon the death of his father, and to renew the league of friendship which he had with him. Josephus assures us, that in his time the letters which passed between Hiram and Solomon were preserved in the Archives of Tyre. This Hiram appears to have been the son of him who sent David timber and artificers to build his palace. Note; (1.) When we are at rest from outward trials, we should give greater diligence to build up the spiritual temple within. (2.) We may put our hands comfortably to that work, in which we have the Divine promise to encourage us. (3.) They have often most of this world's ingenuity, who have no knowledge of Israel's God. (4.) God can employ those in building his church, who have themselves no part nor lot in it. (5.) Every country has its staple commodity; by exchange of which, intercourse is maintained with its neighbours. It is our happiness, that with the corn of Canaan we possess also the shipping of Tyre.