He did evil in the sight of the Lord and committed the same horrible sins practiced by the nations whom the Lord drove out from before the Israelites.

Do not audit the foremen who disburse the silver, for they are honest.”

But in the eighteenth year of King Josiah’s reign, such a Passover of the Lord was observed in Jerusalem.

When all the residents of Jabesh Gilead heard about everything the Philistines had done to Saul,

Such were the exploits of Benaiah son of Jehoiada, who gained fame along with the three elite warriors.

The whole assembly agreed to do this, for the proposal seemed right to all the people.

David did just as God commanded him, and they struck down the Philistine army from Gibeon to Gezer.

David constructed buildings in the City of David; he then prepared a place for the ark of God and pitched a tent for it.

Nathan said to David, “You should do whatever you have in mind, for God is with you.”

David reigned over all Israel; he guaranteed justice for all his people.

Be strong! Let’s fight bravely for the sake of our people and the cities of our God! The Lord will do what he decides is best!”

Now the Lord’s tabernacle (which Moses had made in the wilderness) and the altar for burnt sacrifices were at that time at the worship center in Gibeon.

You also have available many workers, including stonecutters, masons, carpenters, and an innumerable array of workers who are skilled

in using gold, silver, bronze, and iron. Get up and begin the work! May the Lord be with you!”

4,000 are to be gatekeepers; and 4,000 are to praise the Lord with the instruments I supplied for worship.”

Ezri son of Kelub was in charge of the field workers who farmed the land.

I will establish his kingdom permanently, if he remains committed to obeying my commands and regulations, as you are doing this day.’

Realize now that the Lord has chosen you to build a temple as his sanctuary. Be strong and do it!”

Solomon replied to God, “You demonstrated great loyalty to my father David and have made me king in his place.

In the most holy place he made two images of cherubim and plated them with gold.