Costruction of Cities and Royal Palace

Solomon now finishes his own palace as well as his wife's palace. Then the Lord appears to him to reaffirm all the promises He had made as well as re-iterating the fact that Solomon must keep his eyes on the Lord and keep His commandment's. We find out exactly what makes up Solomons army. Also Solomon pays back King Hiram with some rebuilt cities, but Hiram is displeased. Not too much more is said here about that, but I am kinda curious to know if the King did more then just tell Solomon he was upset. Anyway, Solomon fixed the cities once more and gave them to Hiram.

I am having a difficult time with this chapter. Only because of the fact that Solomons palace was over the top. Why? What was the need to have a temple like that. I understand why he did not stay in Davids temple, but why all the cost on a home for himself? Is it conceded? Anyway, I do see that Solomon was a very faithful man to God. He did just as he said in all he did.