November 13 I Saturday

Lamentations 1-2

Hebrews 10:1-18

“When the queen of Sheba heard about the fame of Solomon and his relationship to the LORD, she came to test Solomon with hard questions.”    —1 Kings 10:1

Next to David, Solomon is probably the most famous of Israel’s kings. Solomon was a man of great wealth, learning and leadership. Under his rule, the kingdom of Israel expanded into the largest size and became the most prosperous. Solomon wrote three books of the Bible: Proverbs, Ecclesiastes and Song of Solomon. Many in the Middle East today still consider Solomon to be on par with Alexander the Great, as one of the greatest men in their history.

      The primary reason for Solomon’s fame was his wisdom. In 1 Kings 3, God offered Solomon whatever he wanted God to give him. Rather than requesting riches, military might or a long life, Solomon acknowledged his youth and asked for a discerning heart to govern God’s people (1 Kings 3:9). In response, God not only gave Solomon great wisdom and understanding, but also wealth, honour and success. Rumour of Solomon’s wisdom quickly spread to neighbouring countries, and soon, people from all over the world wanted to hear what Solomon had to say—including the queen of Sheba.

      It was not just Solomon’s wisdom that attracted the queen to Solomon, but also his relationship with God, which was what defined his reputation. More than Solomon answering the queen’s very difficult questions, she wanted to know about the God who had given Solomon his wisdom. In fact, by the end of their discussion, the queen of Sheba praised God for giving Israel such a wise, just and righteous king (1 Kings 10:9). 

      When we submit our lives to God and live in dependence on Him, we will become known for our relationship with God. What people will see, often without understanding, is “Christ in us.” They may look to us when difficulties of life become overwhelming or in seeking comfort when a loved one is sick or dying. There are all kinds of scenarios that draw people to a godly person. As they see the willingness of a Christian to share in the rough and tumble of their life, they may begin to ask questions about why they believe what they believe; questions God called us to be prepared for. 1 Peter 3:15 says, “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect....”

      None of us are perfect, but it is in having a reputation that is defined by living in a committed relationship with God that we become His ambassadors on earth. As Christians, we are meant to be a living testimony of the transforming power of God in our lives so that we may become a blessing to others.

Prayer: Lord, let me be known for my relationship with You. I ask that You make me into someone through whom others are led into a living, active relationship with You. Thank You, Jesus.