How can we prioritize God's work in our lives, as Solomon did? Setting the Scene “ In the four hundred and eightieth year after the Israelites had come out of the land of Egypt, in the fourth year of Solomon’s reign over Israel, in the month of Ziv, which is the second month, he began to build the house of the LORD.” (1 Kings 6:1) This precise historical marker highlights God’s faithfulness over centuries and Solomon’s resolve to honor the LORD at the earliest fitting moment of his reign. What Solomon Did Right • Trusted the literal timetable recorded by the Spirit and acted without delay. • Placed God’s house ahead of royal palaces (cf. 1 Kings 7:1). • Gathered resources in advance (1 Kings 5:3-6). • Unified the people in a God-centered project (1 Kings 5:13-18). • Followed the pattern revealed to David (1 Chronicles 28:10-12). Principle 1: Recognize God’s Timetable • God orders history down to months and days. • “See then that you walk carefully… making the most of the time, because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:15-16). • Act while His Spirit prompts; delayed obedience is disobedience. Principle 2: Offer God Your First and Best • Solomon’s fourth-year priority teaches that early seasons of life, career, or any new chapter belong to God first. • “Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your harvest” (Proverbs 3:9). Principle 3: Organize Life Around Worship • The temple became Israel’s daily focal point; likewise, Christ in us is now the true temple (1 Corinthians 3:16). • Schedule, budget, and family rhythms should orbit around worship gatherings, Scripture intake, and service. Principle 4: Steward Resources for His Glory • Solomon marshaled cedar, gold, skilled labor—nothing second-rate for God. • “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord” (Colossians 3:23). • Allocate talents, finances, and time to advance gospel ministry and meet needs. Principle 5: Stay Focused Amid Success • Wealth and peace surrounded Solomon, yet he fixed on God’s assignment. • “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things” (Colossians 3:2). Practical Steps Today • Block out daily Scripture and prayer before other tasks. • Tithe or designate giving as the first line in the budget. • Volunteer consistently in a local church ministry. • Build rest and celebration around Lord’s-day worship. • Periodically audit calendar and finances: does God’s work receive prime space? Encouragement from the New Testament • “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33). • “Go up into the mountains, bring down timber, and build the house, so that I may take pleasure in it and be honored” (Haggai 1:8)—a timeless call for every generation. By embracing Solomon’s example and these Scriptural principles, we align our priorities with the living God, ensuring His work remains central in every season of life. |
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