In what ways can we prioritize God's work in our own lives today? Setting the Scene in 1 Kings 9:17 “So Solomon rebuilt Gezer, Lower Beth-horon,” (1 Kings 9:17) Solomon is now expanding and fortifying the land, but this comes only after the temple—the visible center of worship—has been completed and dedicated (1 Kings 8). The order is intentional: worship first, then every other project. Principle 1 – Put God’s House First • Solomon spent seven years on the temple (1 Kings 6:38) before turning to his palace and other cities. • The pattern echoes Matthew 6:33: “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you.” • Today: schedule daily time with the Lord before tackling tasks; plant yourself in a local church and serve faithfully. Principle 2 – Fortify What Sustains Worship • Gezer and Lower Beth-horon sat on strategic routes; their defense protected Jerusalem and the temple. • Psalm 127:1 reminds us, “Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain.” • Today: guard Sunday worship, protect family devotion times, and set moral boundaries that keep sin from undermining your walk. Principle 3 – Steward Resources for Kingdom Growth • Solomon leveraged wealth, labor, and diplomacy for projects that strengthened the nation God had entrusted to him. • Proverbs 3:9-10 calls: “Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest.” • Today: – Budget a first-portion tithe and offerings. – Invest skills in ministries that advance the gospel. – Use influence at work to model integrity and point others to Christ. Principle 4 – Stay within Covenant Boundaries • God warned Solomon in 1 Kings 9:4-7 that obedience determines lasting blessing. • 1 John 5:3: “For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome.” • Today: evaluate media choices, business practices, and relationships by Scripture’s clear standards. Practical Ways to Prioritize God’s Work Today • Block out daily Scripture reading before social media or news. • Join or start a small group for mutual accountability. • Serve in one tangible ministry role—greeting, teaching, maintenance, missions support. • Keep a prayer journal tracking answered prayers; it fuels further faithfulness. • Plan vacations and major purchases around, not against, regular giving and church involvement. • Teach children Bible truth at home so church reinforces, not replaces, parental discipleship. • Regularly audit your calendar and spending to see if they showcase “kingdom first” living. Encouraging Promises for Faithful Labor • 1 Corinthians 15:58: “Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast and immovable. Always excel in the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” • Colossians 3:23-24: “Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men, because you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as your reward.” Build God’s house first, fortify what supports worship, steward every resource for His glory, and walk in obedience. The pattern that guided Solomon still sets our priorities today. |
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