In what ways can we prioritize God's work in our own lives today? Solomon’s Season of Completion “At the end of the twenty years during which Solomon had built the house of the LORD and his own palace” (2 Chronicles 8:1). • Solomon devoted two decades to building projects, placing the Temple first (cf. 2 Chronicles 3:1; 1 Kings 6:38; 7:1). • His sequence models a heart that puts God’s agenda ahead of personal comfort. Lessons in Priority • God’s work comes before self-promotion. • Long obedience matters; twenty years of steady labor produced a dwelling for God’s glory. • What we finish for God outlasts what we finish for ourselves (Psalm 127:1). Practical Ways to Put God First Right Now • Schedule with the Kingdom in mind – Set daily time for Scripture and prayer before tackling the to-do list. – Block weekly slots for congregational worship and service. • Order finances around generosity – “Honor the LORD with your wealth” (Proverbs 3:9). – Give the first portion, not the leftovers (2 Corinthians 9:7). • Steward gifts and skills – Use talents in ministry settings (1 Peter 4:10). – Align career choices with opportunities to advance gospel impact. • Guard the heart’s attention – Limit media that dulls spiritual appetite (Psalm 101:3). – Memorize verses that reset priorities—Matthew 6:33; Colossians 3:2. • Cultivate relational mission – Invite neighbors to table and truth (Romans 12:13). – Mentor younger believers, multiplying devotion (2 Timothy 2:2). Resources: Time, Talent, Treasure • Time—redeem it because the days are evil (Ephesians 5:15-16). • Talent—whatever you do, do it “as working for the Lord” (Colossians 3:23). • Treasure—store it where moth and rust can’t reach (Matthew 6:19-21). Guarding Against Drift • Remember Haggai’s warning: paneled houses overshadowing a neglected Temple (Haggai 1:4-9). • Keep short accounts with God; confess quickly when selfish pursuits creep in (1 John 1:9). • Surround yourself with believers who lovingly challenge misplaced priorities (Hebrews 10:24-25). Staying Encouraged • God faithfully supplies every good work He assigns (2 Corinthians 9:8). • The Spirit indwells us as His living Temple (1 Corinthians 3:16), empowering continuous renewal. • Finishing well brings joy now and reward later: “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21). |
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