What does the Queen's offering teach about honoring God through our resources? Setting the Scene “Then she gave the king 120 talents of gold, a great quantity of spices, and precious stones. There was never such spice as that which the queen of Sheba gave to King Solomon.” (2 Chronicles 9:9) The Queen’s Offering: What We Notice • 120 talents of gold—well over four tons; an extravagant gift • “Great quantity of spices”—costly, limited, highly prized in the ancient world • “Precious stones”—rare treasures, not leftovers • The text stresses the uniqueness: “never such spice” had been seen before What Her Gift Teaches about Honoring God • Costly worship: true honor refuses cheap shortcuts (cf. 1 Chronicles 21:24). • Overflowing gratitude: her generosity responds to the wisdom and blessing she received (2 Chronicles 9:7–8). • Public witness: the lavish offering became part of Israel’s record, inspiring others. • Heart before hand: her actions sprang from amazement at the Lord’s work through Solomon (v. 8). Principles for Our Own Giving • Give the first and the best, not the leftovers (Proverbs 3:9). • Let generosity match the greatness of God’s grace toward us (2 Corinthians 9:14–15). • View resources as tools for exalting the Lord, not as personal trophies (Matthew 6:19–21). • Recognize that sacrificial giving pleases God, whether large like the queen’s or small like the widow’s two coins (Luke 21:1–4). Other Scriptural Echoes • Exodus 35:21–29—willing hearts bring precious materials for the tabernacle. • Psalm 72:10–11—foreign kings offering gifts foreshadow global honor to Messiah. • Philippians 4:18—Paul calls the Philippians’ support “a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God.” Living It Out Today • Assess: “Is my giving worthy of the King I serve?” • Plan: set aside intentional, proportionate gifts before spending elsewhere. • Celebrate: share testimonies of God’s provision to stir joyful generosity in others. • Trust: the God who supplied Solomon with wisdom and riches still supplies seed to the sower (2 Corinthians 9:10). Her story invites us to honor the Lord with treasures that reflect His surpassing worth—freely, joyfully, and without holding back. |
    |