He made wreaths of chainwork, as in the inner sanctuary, and put  them  on top of the pillars; and he made one hundred pomegranates, and put  them  on the wreaths of chainwork. 

The temple that Solomon built was immaculate, decorated like nothing you would have seen before or could imagine. Their was detail and design everywhere. Luxury and expense unspared.

I believe that we should have the same heart today to build for God something costly, something amazing that will be a living testament to the goodness of God, whether that is a Church building, a business, a family or your own character, whatever we put our hands to should be done to the same degree of excellence that Solomon sought in building a temple for his God.

The simplest way to apply this principle to our lives is to start with where we are today. I’m on holiday (kids are taking their nap) and having quite a lazy relaxing time – which is really what the family needs after a real busy season. But in that I have a role to play – in directing us to as much fun relaxing as I can.

When I get back to work mode – I want to hit my new projects (www.carmelbookshop.org) with as much energy and excellence as I can, doing my best for my church that employs me and ultimately for my God. And to go in to the next family season (preparing for baby no3) with as much excellence and strength as possible to bless my wife!

Lets all have the same mindset – God is after all looking out to see how you can be stewarding the little you have now to make you master of more (Matthew 25:23)- don’t quit before you get promoted remain faithful and do all your duties onto God. (Colossians 3.23) Even if that is showing the kids how to tidy the house for Mum!