How does Solomon's throne inspire us to honor God in our daily leadership? A scene of royal splendor “Twelve lions stood on the six steps, one at either end of each step. Nothing like it had been made for any kingdom.” (2 Chronicles 9:19) Solomon’s throne, gleaming with gold, guarded by lions, and lifted by six orderly steps, was more than decorative furniture. The Spirit preserved this detail to show how godly authority can display the greatness of the King of kings through excellence, courage, and unshakable order. Why Scripture highlights the throne • It pictures God-given wisdom fulfilled (1 Kings 3:12; 10:18–20). • It reflects heaven’s pattern where “righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne” (Psalm 89:14). • It reminds every leader that visible excellence should point upward, never inward (Matthew 5:16). Leadership lessons from the six steps 1. Clarity of purpose—each step is distinct; muddled priorities confuse followers (Proverbs 4:26). 2. Gradual growth—maturity is climbed, not leaped (2 Peter 1:5-7). 3. Accountability—height makes every step observable (Luke 12:48). 4. Stability—solid steps keep the throne from wobbling (1 Timothy 3:2). 5. Accessibility—steps invite approach, mirroring the king’s readiness to hear (James 1:19). 6. Heavenly direction—upward movement keeps eyes lifted to God’s higher standard (Colossians 3:1-2). The lions beside each armrest • Courage: lead unafraid when convictions rest on Scripture (Joshua 1:9). • Protection: guard those under your care from spiritual and moral danger (Acts 20:28-31). • Reflection: the Lion of Judah, Christ Himself, is the ultimate source of strength (Revelation 5:5). Gold and ivory—weighing our motives • Gold speaks of purity refined by fire; leadership is purified by trials (1 Peter 1:7). • Ivory shows rarity and cost; excellence offered to God should never be cheap (Malachi 1:8). • Together they warn us to pursue quality for God’s glory, not personal indulgence (1 Corinthians 10:31). Guarding our steps: practical applications • Begin tasks with Scripture, not sentiment—anchor each decision in the Word. • Keep work areas and schedules orderly; visible order hints at inward discipline. • Celebrate achievements publicly, but direct praise heavenward immediately. • Confront problems swiftly, like lions pouncing, to protect team integrity. • Invest in personal growth—reading, mentoring, prayer—so each new “step” is strong. Echoes in the rest of Scripture • Proverbs 16:12: “Kings detest wrongdoing, for a throne is established through righteousness.” • Proverbs 20:28: “Loyalty and faithfulness guard the king; through loyalty he maintains his throne.” • Psalm 45:6: “Your throne, O God, is forever and ever; the scepter of Your kingdom is a scepter of justice.” • 2 Timothy 2:21: vessels for honor are “useful to the Master, prepared for every good work.” Daily leadership check-list □ Did I seek God’s wisdom before making decisions today? □ Are my actions building righteousness and justice? □ Is my workspace—and heart—orderly, reflecting God’s character? □ Did I protect my team from moral compromise? □ Have I redirected any praise I received back to the Lord? Solomon’s throne stands as an enduring reminder: every sphere of influence—home, church, workplace—can become a platform where excellence, courage, and holiness point others to the true Sovereign, bringing Him visible honor in our daily leadership. |