How can we apply Solomon's example of completing tasks to our spiritual lives? The Verse in Focus “Thus all the work of Solomon was carried out from the day the foundation was laid for the house of the LORD until its completion; the house of the LORD was finished.” (2 Chronicles 8:16) What We See in Solomon • Started with a clear, God–given blueprint • Stayed at the task “from the day the foundation was laid” until the final stone was set • Managed people and resources wisely (cf. 2 Chronicles 2:1–2) • Kept the project centered on worship, not merely architecture (2 Chronicles 5:13–14) Principles for Our Spiritual To-Do List 1. Foundation First • Lay the groundwork of daily Scripture and prayer before attempting bigger goals (Matthew 7:24–25). 2. Follow God’s Plan • Seek His wisdom at every stage, as Solomon did (2 Chronicles 1:10). 3. Persevere to Completion • Finishing glorifies God; partial obedience is disobedience (James 1:4). 4. Work with Excellence • “Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being” (Colossians 3:23). 5. Keep Worship Central • Let each task—big or small—be an act of worship (Romans 12:1). Practical Steps for Today • Write a concise list of God-honoring tasks for the week. • Pray over each item, asking for direction and endurance. • Tackle one project at a time, resisting distraction. • Schedule checkpoints—brief moments to thank God for progress. • Celebrate completion by offering praise, then move to the next assignment. Encouragement From Other Scriptures • Philippians 1:6 — “He who began a good work in you will perfect it.” • Ecclesiastes 9:10 — “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might.” • 1 Corinthians 14:40 — “Let all things be done decently and in order.” • 2 Timothy 4:7 — “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” • Luke 14:28 — “First sit down and count the cost” before building. A Final Reminder The same God who empowered Solomon to finish the temple empowers believers today to finish every assignment He entrusts—large or small—so that His glory shines through completed, faithful work. |