In what ways can we apply Solomon's generosity in 1 Kings 5:11 today? Context of Solomon’s Generosity “Solomon gave Hiram 20,000 cors of wheat as food for his household, and 20,000 baths of pure olive oil. Solomon gave this to Hiram year after year.” (1 Kings 5:11) What We Learn from Solomon’s Example • Tangible gifts, not mere words • Ongoing, dependable support (“year after year”) • Meeting practical needs (food, oil) • Generosity woven into everyday business dealings • Blessing an ally who helped advance God’s house (1 Kings 5:7–10) Principles for Today 1. Give materially, not only verbally – “Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the LORD” (Proverbs 19:17). 2. Make generosity habitual – “Let us not grow weary in doing good” (Galatians 6:9). 3. Meet real needs, not assumed ones – “If a brother or sister lacks daily food… show him compassion” (James 2:15-16). 4. Honor agreements with integrity – “Let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes’” (Matthew 5:37). 5. Use resources to advance God’s work – “Each of you should give… so that in all things God may be glorified” (1 Peter 4:10-11). Practical Applications • Budget a set amount every month for gospel-focused ministries. • Share farm produce, garden vegetables, or homemade meals with neighbors. • Pay vendors promptly and fairly; tip service workers generously. • Support missionaries or church builders long-term, not just once. • Partner with believers in other cultures, supplying tools or training they request. • Offer professional skills gratis to ministries (legal, tech, medical, carpentry). • Keep a “generosity fund” in cash or gift cards to give whenever needs arise. • Teach children to set aside firstfruits from allowance for giving. The Promised Result “The generous soul will prosper, and he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.” (Proverbs 11:25) |
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