How can we ensure our work aligns with God's purposes, like Huram's did? Huram’s Example: A Craftsman on Mission “Huram finished the work he had undertaken for King Solomon in the house of God.” (2 Chronicles 4:11) Huram’s hands shaped bronze, but his heart served God’s agenda. The same pattern guides us today. Seeing Our Work as God’s Assignment • 2 Chronicles 2:13-14 shows Huram “endowed with wisdom, understanding, and skill.” His ability was God-given. • Proverbs 16:3: “Commit your works to the LORD and your plans will be achieved.” • Action step: Begin every project by acknowledging God’s ownership—“Lord, this is Yours; direct my plans.” Sharpening the Skills God Entrusted • Huram’s mastery didn’t appear overnight; he honed it (2 Chronicles 2:14). • Ecclesiastes 9:10: “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might.” Practical ways: – Schedule regular practice or study to improve the craft. – Seek mentors as Solomon sought Huram. – Welcome correction; excellence honors the Lord. Pursuing Excellence for God’s Glory, Not Ours • 1 Corinthians 10:31: “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” • Colossians 3:23-24: “Work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord… It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” Checklist: – Integrity: refuse shortcuts that compromise truth. – Thoroughness: finish what you start (Huram “finished” the work). – Quality: aim for workmanship worthy of a King. Keeping Kingdom Purpose Front-and-Center • Matthew 6:33: “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.” Huram’s bronzework served worship, not self-promotion. Likewise: – Ask, “How will this task advance God’s kingdom?” – Use profits, platforms, and products to point people to Christ. Working in God-Led Community • Huram partnered with Solomon’s team. God often fulfills purposes through collaboration. • Ephesians 4:16 describes the body “joined and held together… as each part does its work.” Guidelines: – Submit gifts to spiritual leadership. – Encourage and receive encouragement. – Celebrate others’ successes; the temple required many hands. Persevering to the Finish Line • Galatians 6:9: “Let us not grow weary in well-doing.” • 2 Timothy 4:7: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race.” Stay the course by: – Remembering the why—God’s glory. – Resting in Sabbath rhythms; fatigue breeds compromise. – Trusting God for results; faithfulness matters more than fame. Putting It All Together When our skills, motives, and perseverance mirror Huram’s, our daily labor—whether spreadsheets, classrooms, or carpentry—becomes temple work. Align every project with God’s ownership, polish the abilities He provides, seek His glory above recognition, serve alongside His people, and finish strong. In doing so, our work resonates with the same divine purpose that echoed through Huram’s bronze pillars and basins. |