How can we apply Solomon's example of excellence in our own work today? Solomon’s Excellence on Display – “the food on his table, the seating of his servants, the service and attire of his attendants, his cupbearers and their attire, and the burnt offerings he offered at the house of the LORD—it took her breath away.” (2 Chronicles 9:4) – Every detail—from menu to wardrobe to worship—was handled so thoughtfully that the Queen of Sheba was overwhelmed. – Solomon’s excellence was not showy self-promotion; it was an overflow of honoring the Lord who had granted him wisdom and resources. Key Principle: Excellence Reflects God’s Glory – Colossians 3:23–24: “Whatever you do, work at it with your whole heart, as for the Lord… It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31: “Whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God.” – When our work is done well, observers glimpse the character of the God we serve—order, beauty, faithfulness, generosity. Practical Applications for Our Work 1. Purposeful Preparation • Plan ahead like Solomon’s kitchen staff who knew exact portions and timing. • Create schedules, checklists, or budgets that remove chaos and honor God’s value for order (1 Corinthians 14:33). 2. Attention to Detail • Solomon cared about the attire of cupbearers; likewise, polish reports, proof emails, clean tools. • “Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will stand before kings” (Proverbs 22:29). 3. Hospitable Service • His seating plan dignified every guest. Cultivate environments at home or office where people feel seen and valued. • Romans 12:13 encourages us to “practice hospitality.” Excellence is people-focused, not task-focused alone. 4. Worship at the Center • Solomon’s burnt offerings reminded everyone the excellence was for God. • Begin projects with thanksgiving, end with praise; schedule devotions into the workday. 5. Consistent Visual Testimony • Clean uniforms signaled respect. Keep workspaces tidy, presentations clear, finances transparent—visual sermons of integrity (Matthew 5:16). 6. Skill Development • Solomon’s attendants were trained. Enroll in courses, seek mentors, read broadly. • Ecclesiastes 10:10: “If the axe is dull… skill brings success”. 7. Shared Excellence • Solomon empowered teams; excellence is contagious. Encourage, delegate, celebrate co-workers’ wins (Hebrews 10:24). Guardrails to Maintain Excellence Without Pride – Remember the Source: “Every good and perfect gift is from above” (James 1:17). – Stay Humble: Solomon later struggled; excellence must remain anchored in obedience (Deuteronomy 8:11-18). – Serve, Don’t Showcase: Let commendations come from others (Proverbs 27:2). Encouragement to Begin Today Start with the next small task—answer an email, fold laundry, balance a ledger—as though Christ Himself will read, wear, or audit it. With each detail you steward faithfully, you echo Solomon’s breath-taking testimony and invite others to behold the greatness of God. |
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