What lessons on diligence can we learn from Solomon's actions in this verse? Scripture Focus “Thus all the work of Solomon was completed from the day the foundation of the house of the LORD was laid until its completion, so the house of the LORD was finished.” (2 Chronicles 8:16) Seeing Solomon’s Diligence Up Close • Long-Term Commitment: Solomon stayed the course “from the day the foundation… until its completion.” No wavering once the work began. • Clear Milestones: Beginning with a foundation and ending with a finished house shows orderly, measurable progress. • Total Follow-Through: “All the work… was completed.” Nothing was left half-done or postponed. • God-Centered Motivation: The project was “the house of the LORD,” keeping spiritual purpose at the heart of every practical task. Principles for Our Own Work • Begin with a Firm Foundation — Luke 14:28 reminds of counting the cost before building. — Planning prevents discouragement later. • Work Consistently Until Completion — Galatians 6:9 urges perseverance, promising a harvest “if we do not grow weary.” — Proverbs 13:4 contrasts the diligent soul, which “is richly supplied.” • Value Excellence Over Expedience — Ecclesiastes 9:10: “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might.” — 1 Corinthians 14:40: “Everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way.” • Keep God at the Center — Colossians 3:23: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.” — Psalm 127:1 cautions that labor is in vain without the Lord’s involvement. Supporting Scriptures • Nehemiah 4:6: The wall was rebuilt because “the people had a mind to work.” • Proverbs 22:29: The diligent will “stand before kings.” Solomon himself exemplifies this. • Hebrews 6:11-12: Show the same diligence to realize the full assurance of hope. Putting It into Practice 1. Start every task with prayerful planning, laying a sound foundation. 2. Set tangible checkpoints, celebrating progress without losing momentum. 3. Refuse shortcuts that sacrifice quality; aim for God-honoring excellence. 4. Finish what you start, trusting God to supply strength and wisdom each step. |
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