How can we seek God's wisdom in our own building projects today? Building on a Sure Foundation “Hiram also said, ‘Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel, who made heaven and earth! He has given King David’s son wisdom, knowledge, and understanding to build a house for the LORD and a royal palace for himself.’” Solomon’s temple project began with public praise for the Creator, followed by a clear confession: any skill, insight, or architectural brilliance came straight from God. That pattern still shapes every modern blueprint. --- Where True Wisdom Comes From • God is the Maker of “heaven and earth” (Genesis 1:1; Psalm 24:1). • He “gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning” (Daniel 2:21). • He is eager to share that wisdom when we ask in faith (James 1:5). --- Practical Ways to Seek God’s Wisdom for Today’s Projects 1. Begin with Worship, Not the Workbench • Follow Solomon’s lead: celebrate the Lord before you calculate square footage. • Psalm 100:4 reminds us to “enter His gates with thanksgiving.” Gratitude tunes the heart to hear His guidance. 2. Align Motives with His Glory • 1 Corinthians 10:31—“Whatever you do…do it all for the glory of God.” • Ask: “Will this structure point people to the Lord’s goodness or only to my ambition?” 3. Ask Boldly for Skill and Insight • James 1:5 promises wisdom to any who “asks God, who gives generously.” • Solomon modeled this in 1 Kings 3:9; God answered with abundant understanding. 4. Search the Scriptures for Timeless Principles • Proverbs 3:5-6 teaches us to “trust in the LORD…He will make your paths straight.” • Let passages on stewardship, beauty, order, and justice shape design decisions. 5. Count the Cost with Eyes Wide Open • Luke 14:28-30—Jesus commends the builder who first “sits down and estimates the cost.” • Careful budgeting is spiritual obedience, not mere spreadsheet work. 6. Commit Plans to the Lord • Proverbs 16:3—“Commit your works to the LORD and your plans will be established.” • Dedication invites His correction while plans are still lines on paper, not poured concrete. 7. Welcome Spirit-Filled Craftsmen and Counselors • Exodus 31:1-6—Bezalel and Oholiab received the Spirit’s empowerment for artistic skill. • Proverbs 15:22—“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” • Surround the project with gifted believers who pursue excellence and integrity. 8. Work Diligently, Rest Dependently • Colossians 3:23—“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.” • Psalm 127:1 balances the drive: “Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain.” 9. Dedicate the Finished Work • Solomon’s dedication in 1 Kings 8 shows a public hand-off of the building to its rightful Owner. • A modern ribbon-cutting can be a testimony service, declaring His faithfulness. 10. Use the Structure as a Platform for Testimony • 1 Peter 2:9 calls believers to “declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness.” • Let every meeting, outreach, or quiet conversation within those walls echo the gospel. --- Living Out 2 Chronicles 2:12 Today Hiram’s blessing outlined a simple progression we can still follow: 1. Recognize God as Creator and Owner. 2. Receive the wisdom He freely gives. 3. Build in a way that honors the One who provided the plans, the materials, and the skill. When His wisdom guides every nail, beam, and finish, the result becomes more than a building. It stands as a living witness: “Blessed be the LORD…who has given His people wisdom.” |
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