How to honor Christ like Solomon?
How can we honor Christ as the kings honored Solomon in Psalm 72:10?

A Royal Scene in Psalm 72:10

“May the kings of Tarshish and distant shores bring tribute; may the kings of Sheba and Seba offer gifts.” (Psalm 72:10)

In Solomon’s day powerful rulers crossed deserts and oceans to recognize his God-given kingship. Their gold, spices, and costly treasures declared, “Your throne is worthy of our very best.”


Seeing Christ in Solomon’s Shadow

Psalm 72 is ultimately Messianic—pointing beyond Solomon to the greater Son of David (Luke 1:32-33).

• The global homage described in verse 10 anticipates the moment when “every knee should bow… and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord” (Philippians 2:10-11).

• The wise men echoed this pattern by falling before the infant Jesus and presenting gold, frankincense, and myrrh (Matthew 2:11).


The Heart of Tribute: What Christ Deserves

Honor for Christ today is not limited to ancient treasures. He seeks worship that is wholehearted, practical, and public:

• Worship that crowns Him—“Through Jesus… let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise” (Hebrews 13:15).

• Obedience that proves love—“If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15).

• Generosity that trusts His provision—“Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits” (Proverbs 3:9-10).

• Compassion that touches the needy—“Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me” (Matthew 25:40).

• Witness that spreads His fame—“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19).


Practical Ways to Bring Our Gifts Today

1. Offer Your Whole Life

– Present your body “as a living sacrifice” (Romans 12:1). Your schedule, skills, and energy become daily tribute.

2. Give Your Resources First, Not Last

– Prioritize regular, cheerful giving to gospel work and mercy ministries. The kings gave from abundance; we give from trust.

3. Speak His Worth Openly

– In conversations, social media, and public life, acknowledge Christ’s authority. Kings announced allegiance; believers testify.

4. Serve the Marginalized

– Volunteer, visit, feed, clothe—doing it “for Me,” Jesus says (Matthew 25:40). Solomon’s reign was marked by justice for the poor (Psalm 72:12-14); Christ’s reign is the same.

5. Cultivate Worship at Home

– Read Scripture aloud, sing, and pray as families or roommates. Our homes become miniature throne rooms.

6. Guard Moral Purity

– Stand against a culture of compromise. Royal subjects live by the King’s decrees (1 Peter 2:9-12).

7. Invest in Global Mission

– Support missionaries, translate Bibles, and even go yourself. Kings of “distant shores” sought Solomon; we now carry Christ to distant shores.


Living Out Royal Allegiance Daily

• Begin each morning by affirming, “Jesus, You reign over this day.”

• Budget with the question, “What can I lay at Your feet?”

• Schedule time weekly for hands-on service to someone in need.

• Keep a journal of moments you verbally honored Christ; aim to grow that list.

• Celebrate answered prayer and provision as evidence that the King notices every tribute.


A Closing Encouragement

The kings of Tarshish, Sheba, and Seba traveled far to honor Solomon. Christ is nearer than the air we breathe, yet infinitely more glorious. Every act of worship, obedience, generosity, and witness is noticed by the King and will be remembered when we cast our crowns before His throne (Revelation 4:10-11). Let’s keep bringing our gifts.

What significance do 'kings of Tarshish' and 'islands' hold in Psalm 72:10?
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