God made and not self-made

Proverbs 22:29

“Do you see a man skilled in his work?  He will stand before kings; He will not stand before obscure men.”

My career was in sales I became good in that one area.  I always met people who were more skilled than I, men who I looked to and learned from.  I enjoy writing but it’s very clear that I’m not experienced in that area, I also enjoy gardening and woodwork, but it has become clear I am just a learner in all three areas of this life.  I have a passion for pouring my life into the life of a younger man, to share what I understand God has shown me in the Scriptures about living life on planet earth.

Yes, it is a blessed life I’ve enjoyed in my 76 years on planet earth, I appreciate the many relationships the Lord has allowed in my life.  It has had a price tag of many foolish acts on my part, or like my friend Kim Mulvey often said; I’ve had a lot of bought lessons.  And history, our history is a good thing if we learn from it, for Jesus made it very clear in this world we will have tribulation.

We have all observed a person that is very skilled in what they are doing; in fact, often we sit in awe of such people, but should we?  Why do a few people seem to be chosen to be skilled beyond others who have the same skills and desires to be the best they can be at that action?  The answer is found in Exodus 36:1 "Now Bezalel and Oholiab, and every skillful person in whom the LORD has put skill and understanding to know how to perform all the work in the construction of the sanctuary, shall perform in accordance with all that the LORD has commanded." 

But if you are blessed to have a relationship with such a person, and that is your passion you like the workmen they pick and can learn from them.  My pastor has been given many skills and is a gifted speaker, but does not have a doctor title after his name, yet many a man who does should sit at his feet and learn from him.

So what is King Solomon trying to get across to us or what can one learn from his actions before God when he was a young boy king.  When asked by the Lord what shall I give you in a dream, this is the short version of Solomon’s reply.  “Give your servant, therefore, an understanding mind to govern your people, that I may discern between good and evil, for who is able to govern this your great people?”

 It pleased the Lord that Solomon had asked this.   And God said to him, “Because you have asked this, and have not asked for yourself long life or riches or the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself understanding to discern what is right, ^behold, I now do according to your word. Behold, I give you a wise and discerning mind so that none like you has been before you and none like you shall arise after you.   I give you also what you have not asked, both riches and honor so that no other king shall compare with you, all your days.”

So a person with excellent skills at their work should understand they are God made and not self-made.  They should pray like Solomon to use the gift to bless others and to give all glory to God.

From the Back Porch,

Bob Rice