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Psalm 72:8-14  

May he rule from sea to sea and from the River to the ends of the earth. May the desert tribes bow before him and his enemies lick the dust. May the kings of Tarshish and of distant shores bring tribute to him. May the kings of Sheba and Seba present him gifts. May all kings bow down to him and all nations serve him. For he will deliver the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no one to help. He will take pity on the weak and the needy and save the needy from death. He will rescue them from oppression and violence, for precious is their blood in his sight. 

Solomon, the author of this psalm, was a visionary. He anticipated that his kingdom would extend from sea to sea, from the Euphrates River around the world. Rulers would bring gifts to him and serve him. 

The queen of Sheba (present day Yemen) did bring a load of gifts to Solomon. She was very impressed with his wealth and wisdom. She said, “The report I heard in my own country about your achievements and wisdom is true…Indeed, not even half was told me…” (1 Kings 10:6-7). 

Unfortunately Solomon’s wisdom was not applied when it came to the women in his life. When he was old “his wives turned his heart after other gods.” His vision was never realized.  War split the prosperous kingdom. Both the North (Israel) and South (Judah) were eventually defeated and the people taken into captivity. The lesson: Make sure the actions of your life match the prayers of your lips. 

Father, please don’t let me pull a Solomon. Don’t let my actions negate my prayers. In Jesus’ name. Amen.