1 Kings 9:26-28 – Collaborate to achieve more

In 1 Kings 9:26-28, we see how Solomon collaborated and worked with Hiram. Their friendship allowed them to join forces for the benefit of the alliance. Verse 26 said that Solomon built a fleet of naval ships in Ezion-geber, near Eloth which was at the shore of the Red Sea in the land of Edom. Verse 27 said that Hiram sent his servants to help Solomon’s men in the sailing. Remember Hiram was the king of the coastal city of Tyre which was a part of Phoenicia. It was a flourishing maritime and great commercial city.  Being a city on the coastal plain of Phoenicia, explained why they were better sailors. Hence this explained why Solomon wisely worked with Hiram who supplied sailors to ferry a huge amount of gold from Ophir back to Israel. The total amount was described to be four hundred and twenty talents.

Solomon’s wisdom and ability were demonstrated in his role as a judge and nation builder. He obviously had great people skills and was able to tap on the ability of others. If there is something we all need most is our ability to relate and work with others. We must know that we do need the help of others to be more complete people. None of us possess skills and abilities in everything. Some people have better skills than us and are more capable. Why don’t we tap on them? It is good to be  independent, but it is better to work interdependently. We can achieve more when we synergize and work together.   

The church comprises people with different ministries and skills. Each of us is given talents and abilities for the edification of the church. In 1 Corinthians 12:4-7, Paul said, ^“Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are varieties of ministries and the same Lord.  There are varieties of effects, but the same God who works all things in all persons. But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.” God grants each of us spiritual gifts for the common good of the fellowship. We are called to build one another up with our God-given gifts to help each other to be a more effective witness to the world. So let us learn to tap on the resources of others. God does not intend for us to operate alone.  Let’s collaborate to build the church of Christ!