1 Kings 3 & 4: Light Gifts

1 Kings 4:3 & 4
Amplified Bible (AMP)


He spoke of trees, from the cedar that is in Lebanon to the hyssop that grows out of the wall; he spoke also of beasts, of birds, of creeping things, and of fish.


Men came from all peoples to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and from all kings of the earth who had heard of his wisdom.




Solomon used his wisdom and understanding as a dendrologist, herbalist, zoologist, ornithologist, entomologist, and ichthyologist.  Solomon had so much wisdom and understanding that world leaders traveled just to hear what he had to say.


Solomon received much attention because of his God-given gift of wisdom.  We may receive the attention of men because of the gifts God gives us.  But, what we do with that attention reveals our heart.


Do we allow pride to puff us up, when God moves mightily through us?  Do we debase ourselves, fearing that we get the glory instead of God?  Both attitudes are faulty!


God gives us gifts in order to shine for Him.  We are not called to hide our God-given light under a bushel basket!




Matthew 5:14-16
New King James Version (NKJV)


You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.  Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.  Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.




God's gifts are light gifts.  That means, when used the gifts shine His light into whatever situation we find ourselves.  God desires that we live shining for Him, because it brings glory to Him.  When we get attention, the door is wide open for us to speak about our beloved Jesus!


God gave me the wonderful gift of peace during a recent difficult season and people did notice.  Co-workers were amazed at this peace.  Some even told me they felt "Peace" coming from me.  :)  The manifestation of the gift of peace allowed me to speak of all the wondrous things my God does for me.  God gifts me, I shine that gift, then He touches others through that gift.  We may get attention, but He gets the glory!


Holy Spirit, empower us to shine the gifts You have given so others may glorify Abba in heaven.  Just as Solomon used his gift of wisdom, let us utilize whatever gifts are inside of us and kings (men of influence) will come and will glorify God.  In Jesus' name, AMEN!!!