Our Expectation of Success

Who doesn't wish for success?

I know I do! So why do I let so many things get in the way of it? Wouldn't it be great if God wrote this about your life... that EVERYTHING on your heart SUCCEEDED?

I tend to make excuses for my less-than-successful dreams. It's not for a lack of ideas, rather the time, energy and wisdom to get them all up and running. And I tend to want them all to be accomplished at the same time.

So how was Solomon different? How did he accomplish everything in his heart... AND it be successful? I mean it's one thing to finish everything. But for success in all of it? That's a whole level higher.

Could it be the motive?
Could it be the wisdom?
Could it be the planning?

How exactly did Solomon succeed in everything? Because those are typically the people I envy. Even though I'd trade with them in a heartbeat, they are the ones my selfish, self-doubting heart wants to trip and fall... just once. (Sorry, just being honest)

But Solomon started out humble.
He asked for wisdom,
when he could have asked for anything.

Solomon listened to God.
He could have built the temple
his own way, but he didn't.

Solomon enlisted the help of others.
He asked for them resources.
He accepted their help with labor.
He sought the aid of skilled experts.

Solomon knew his heritage.
He knew his true purpose
because he remembered how
his father, David, raised him.

He realized his calling
because he sought God first.

Solomon worshipped.
And when he realized a victory,
he didn't self-promote.
Rather, he brought others together
and into the Spirit-filled worship of God.

Lord, I so long to succeed in everything which enters my heart. Grant me the wisdom to organized my thoughts, to follow a plan and to know who to ask for help.

Guide me, Lord to keep my perspective clear of the extremes of doubt and pride. And above all, Lord, help me put my Expectation of Success into Your hands.

Let me encourage you, too...
to know He will guide you,
to know He will enable you,
to know He desires that you give Him glory.