Devotion:
Read 1 Kings 4:20-25.
To this point in King Solomon’s reign, he had acted wisely and in accordance with God’s will. This brief passage illustrates the wealth and power of Israel during this time, which would be remembered for generations and even by historians today as the glorious peak in Israel’s history. For the most part, the “harvest” being reaped by Solomon and his people was due to the faithfulness, work, conquests, and good fortune of his father, David. While the beautiful first temple was built during the reign of King Solomon and was even known as “Solomon’s Temple,” his father David had gathered all of the raw materials and had the project ready for his son to launch.
It is not unusual for people to work hard or to sacrifice to produce a harvest that is enjoyed by others. We enjoy a harvest of freedom and rights in our country because of the sacrifices of others, many of whom are no longer living. Students graduating from college and beginning exciting new careers have no doubt worked hard to reach their goals; but often their parents, teachers, and others have also played a large part in producing the harvest. It is humbling and good for us to remember that our harvests are sometimes due to the work of other people and that perhaps others coming after us will reap the harvest of some of our work.
Personal Worship Option:
Think for a few minutes about some of the good harvests you are enjoying right now in your life. Did others help produce any of those? Give thanks for them, praise God, and enjoy your harvests.
No comments:
Post a Comment