What can we learn from Solomon's actions about using resources for God's glory? Launching a Fleet, Pointing to God’s Purposes “King Solomon also built a fleet of ships at Ezion-geber, which is near Eloth in Edom, on the shore of the Red Sea.” (1 Kings 9:26) What Solomon Actually Did • He invested national resources (labor, timber, metals) in a shipyard. • He chose a strategic location—Ezion-geber opened a trade route to Ophir (vv. 27-28). • He partnered with Hiram of Tyre, accessing skilled sailors Israel lacked (v. 27). • The gold that came back (v. 28) underwrote the Temple’s furnishings and the kingdom’s needs (cf. 2 Chronicles 9:10–11). Lessons on Using Resources for God’s Glory • Prioritize God-Honoring Projects – Solomon’s fleet served the house of the Lord first (1 Kings 7:51). – Proverbs 3:9–10: “Honor the LORD with your wealth… your barns will be filled.” God’s work comes before personal luxury. • Plan, Build, and Expand Wisely – Strategic thinking is not secular; it’s stewardship (Luke 14:28). – Deuteronomy 8:18 reminds us the power to gain wealth is a gift to advance His covenant purposes. • Seek Complementary Partnerships – Hiram supplied sailors; Solomon supplied ships. Collaboration multiplies impact (Ecclesiastes 4:9). – 2 Corinthians 6:14 cautions against unequal yokes—choose partners who respect God’s agenda. • Diversify Gifts, Concentrate Glory – Ships, mines, diplomacy—different tools, one aim: exalt the Lord (1 Corinthians 10:31). – Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30): God commends increase when it’s returned to Him. • Guard the Heart While Growing the Treasury – Later, excess gold fed Solomon’s drift (1 Kings 11:3-4). Resources are servants, never masters (Matthew 6:24). – 1 Timothy 6:17-19: “Instruct those who are rich… to be rich in good works.” Practical Takeaways Today • Treat every ability, contact, or dollar as ship-building material for God’s kingdom. • Invest where gospel influence can expand—even in unfamiliar “waters.” • Welcome expertise you don’t possess, but keep the mission Christ-centered. • Celebrate returns, then send them back out in worship and service. |
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