Gems of Knowledge

Today’s One Year Bible Verses: 1 Kings 5:1–6:38, Acts 7:1–29, Psalm 127:1–5, Proverbs 16:28–30

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Allow God To Build It

After worship this morning I asked the Lord for today’s Gem of knowledge and this is what the Holy Spirit whispered:

“Showing humility and surrender is not weakness. In fact, it is quite the opposite. There is tremendous power in them. Don’t be deceived to believe anything different. They are essential to My kingdom’s power. Amen.”

The world often teaches us that strength means dominance, self-promotion, and always proving ourselves right. Humility is frequently mistaken for weakness, and surrender is often viewed as defeat.

But God’s kingdom operates very differently.

Then when I opened my bible I couldn’t help but see the beauty and power found in humility through the relationship between Solomon and King Hiram.

Solomon had every reason to exalt himself. He was the king chosen by God, blessed with wisdom, wealth, and influence. Yet when it came time to build the Temple, he approached Hiram with respect and honor. He acknowledged Hiram’s skills and resources and requested his partnership. Solomon did not demand assistance because of his position. Instead, he sought cooperation and offered fair payment for the labor provided.

Likewise, Hiram responded with generosity and humility. Rather than competing with Solomon or seeking his own glory, he rejoiced in what God was doing through Israel. He offered resources, workers, and support to help fulfill God’s purpose.

Neither king approached the other with pride. They did not seek to elevate themselves above one another. Instead, they honored each other, served one another, and worked together toward a greater purpose than either could accomplish alone.

The result was beautiful.

Friendship was strengthened. Alliances were formed. Peace was established. Most importantly, the Temple—the dwelling place dedicated to the worship of God—was built.

What a powerful reminder that humility often accomplishes far more than pride ever could.

Psalm 127 reinforces this truth:

“Unless the Lord builds a house, the work of the builders is wasted.” (Psalm 127:1, NLT)

The Temple was not ultimately built because Solomon was wise or Hiram was skilled. It was built because both men participated in what God was building.

The same principle applies to our lives.

Many of us spend tremendous energy trying to build our own plans, protect our reputations, prove our worth, or control outcomes. Yet God’s greatest work often begins when we surrender those things to Him.

Humility says, “Lord, Your way is better than mine.”

Surrender says, “Lord, I trust You enough to follow where You lead.”

Neither posture is weak. Both require tremendous strength, faith, and courage.

We see this truth again in Stephen’s life in the book of Acts. Standing before hostile leaders, Stephen did not defend his own reputation or fight for self-preservation. He humbly surrendered himself to God and faithfully proclaimed the truth. His confidence was not in himself but in the One he served.

Kingdom power flows through surrendered hearts.

Pride insists on control – Humility invites God’s leadership.

And when God is leading, He builds things far greater than we ever could on our own. 💎

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Action (5 Minutes with God)

Ask the Lord if there is any area of your life where pride, self-reliance, or the need to control outcomes has replaced surrender. Give that area back to Him today and trust Him to build what only He can build.

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Prayer

Father, thank You for showing me that humility and surrender are not weaknesses but strengths in Your kingdom. Forgive me for the times I have tried to build things in my own wisdom, power, or understanding. Help me to walk in the humility of Solomon, the generosity of Hiram, and the surrender of Stephen. Teach me to trust Your leadership and follow Your direction. Build through my life what only You can build, and let everything I do bring glory to You. In Jesus’ mighty name I pray, Amen.

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