How does Solomon's example inspire excellence in our work for the Lord? Solomon’s Showcase of Excellence 2 Chronicles 9:11 records, “The king made the algumwood into steps for the house of the LORD and for the king’s palace, and he made harps and lyres for the singers. There had never been anything like them seen before in the land of Judah.” • Solomon turns rare algum wood into grand staircases and exquisite instruments. • The chronicler marvels, stressing the unmatched quality. • Every piece—whether structural or musical—serves temple worship, declaring God’s worth through beauty. Rooted Motive: Honor for the Lord • 2 Chronicles 2:5—“The temple I am going to build will be great, for our God is greater than all gods.” Solomon’s ambition is God-centered. • 1 Kings 5:17—costly stones are quarried “at the king’s command”; expense is no deterrent when glorifying the Lord. • Application: when love for God drives the task, excellence becomes natural, not forced. Craftsmanship and Creativity • Harps and lyres (9:11) enable skilled Levites to lead worship (1 Chronicles 15:16). • The same wood forms palace steps, showing harmony between sacred and secular spaces. • Proverbs 22:29—“Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will stand before kings.” Solomon fulfills this proverb, and so can today’s believers who refine their crafts. Lessons for Our Daily Calling • Give your best materials. Solomon chooses premium wood; offer prime time, talents, and resources. • Aim for beauty plus utility. Instruments are both lovely and functional; our projects should delight and serve. • Think generationally. The chronicler notes nothing like this had existed; enduring quality leaves a testimony after we’re gone. • Blend worship and work. Solomon’s palace steps and temple steps are fashioned from the same timber—every sphere can reflect God’s glory (1 Corinthians 10:31). Practical Steps Toward Solomon-like Excellence 1. Clarify the “why.” Before starting, echo Solomon’s purpose: “for the house of the LORD.” 2. Seek the finest inputs you can steward—materials, training, counsel. 3. Plan meticulously; Solomon organized artisans, resources, and timelines (1 Kings 6:7). 4. Welcome skilled partners. Hiram’s craftsmen and Israelites labored side by side (2 Chronicles 2:13-14). 5. Finish completely. Half-done work never inspired Judah; Solomon saw every detail through (2 Chronicles 7:11). 6. Dedicate results to God, not self. When acclaim arrives, redirect praise (Colossians 3:23-24). Encouragement to Finish Well Solomon’s algum wood steps still preach: excellence in God’s service makes the invisible King visible. Let his example spur wholehearted, skillful labor today, so that others may say of our work, “Nothing like it has ever been seen,” and give glory to the Lord who empowered it. |
    |