In what ways can we honor God with our resources today? Solomon’s Visitors and Their Gifts “Year after year, each visitor would bring his tribute—articles of silver and gold, garments, weapons and spices, and horses and mules.” (1 Kings 10:25) God inspired this snapshot of Solomon’s court to show how people honored Israel’s king with their best. The principle still speaks: when we recognize the greatness of our King, we gladly lay our resources at His feet. What the Tribute Teaches Us About Honoring a Greater King • Giving was continual (“year after year”)—honor is not a one-time gesture. • Gifts were diverse—every kind of valuable item was represented. • Offerings were voluntary—visitors came of their own accord. • Presence and gifts were linked—honor meant showing up personally with substance in hand. Honoring God with Our Material Wealth • First-fruits giving: “Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest” (Proverbs 3:9-10). • Tithing and beyond: “Bring the full tithe into the storehouse… Test Me in this” (Malachi 3:10). • Cheerful generosity: “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). • Supporting gospel work—missionaries, local church ministries, Bible translation, mercy outreaches (Philippians 4:15-19). • Budgeting for compassion—setting aside funds to meet immediate needs (Hebrews 13:16). Honoring God with Time and Talent • Serving in the body of Christ: “Each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another” (1 Peter 4:10). • Vocational excellence: “Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord” (Colossians 3:23-24). • Mentoring and discipleship—investing skills and experience in others (2 Timothy 2:2). • Creative arts—music, writing, craftsmanship offered for His glory (Exodus 35:30-35). Honoring God Through Hospitality and Possessions • Opening our homes: early believers “broke bread from house to house” (Acts 2:46). • Sharing vehicles, tools, and technology to lighten burdens (Acts 4:32-35). • Caring for widows, orphans, refugees—pure religion in action (James 1:27). Cultivating a Heart That Delights to Give • Remember ownership: “The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof” (Psalm 24:1). • Guard against materialism: “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:19-21). • Practice contentment: “Godliness with contentment is great gain” (1 Timothy 6:6). • Stay grateful—thanksgiving fuels generous living (2 Corinthians 9:11-12). God’s Promises to Faithful Stewards • Provision: “Your barns will be filled with plenty” (Proverbs 3:10). • Eternal reward: “Store up treasures in heaven” (Matthew 6:20). • Kingdom impact: “You will be enriched in every way to be generous on every occasion” (2 Corinthians 9:11). Like Solomon’s visitors, we approach a far greater King. Every dollar, every minute, every skill is an opportunity to echo their tribute and proclaim, ‘You are worthy, Lord.’ |
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