Once David takes over Zion, he begins expanding the city.
His first move was to start construction at the terraced spot on the north side of the city, just outside the walls.
Back then, people called it the Millo, but later it was known as the Ophel.
They put up homes in this open space between the City of David and the top of the hill called Mt. Moriah—that’s where the Temple would be built one day.
Eventually, David expanded the city walls to include this new housing area, making it all part of his growing kingdom.
After that, we hear that David started building a palace for himself.
King Hiram from Tzor (that’s another name for Tyre, the capital of Phoenicia) sent cedar logs and skilled workers to help David build a proper palace for the King of Israel.
The story makes it sound like the palace was built right after David conquered Zion, but it actually happened later during his reign.
The Bible sometimes tells events in a way that doesn’t follow the exact timeline.
We know David ruled until about 960 B.C., and King Hiram became king around 970 B.C.
So the palace must have been built sometime between those years.
The Cedars of Lebanon were famous for their durability and their rich, warm hues, ranging from reddish-brown to golden tones.
They were strong enough to withstand heavy loads but also beautiful enough to be used for elegant interior decorations.
Cedar was loved so much that way back in 3000 B.C., it was already being shipped from Phoenicia to Egypt.
By David’s time, cedar wood almost became a scarce resource, making it quite rare and expensive.
Only the richest aristocrats, like kings and nobles, could afford it.
So here’s your takeaway for today.
What we can learn from David’s actions is the importance of thoughtful planning and resourcefulness in building something lasting.
David didn’t just stop at conquering Zion; he took deliberate steps to expand, improve, and fortify the city.
He used his relationships, like the alliance with King Hiram, to gather the best materials and skilled workers, ensuring both beauty and durability for his projects.
The lesson?
Success isn’t just about achieving a goal; it’s about building wisely for the future…
And making the most of the resources and connections available to create something that stands the test of time.
Ya feel me?
See ya all next time.
Note: Photo is courtesy of the “Pictorial Library of Bible Lands.”
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