Keep That Book Open!

The other day I wrote about Solomon…

His reign as king lasted 40 years.

The first 20 years were spent pursuing God-given vision.

During that time, he did a lot of good stuff (he designed, built, invented, wrote, and improved stuff).

Then he closed the “good stuff” book, dusted off his hands, and started writing another one.

Unfortunately, this new book wasn’t inspired by God-given vision—instead, it was fueled by personal appetite.

Over the next 20 years, he took 700 wives and 300 concubines.

Yikes dude!

I wonder if he felt entitled?

I wonder if he reasoned: “I’ve done so much for everyone else—now it’s time for me. I deserve this.”

Solomon’s next book was a sad story, a tragic tale.

He lost his way.

He closed the “good stuff” book and began writing the “serving himself” book.

I think the story of Solomon vividly illustrates why we need to keep that “good stuff” book open.

I never want to close that book!

I never want to be found dusting off my hands, getting started with my brand new book, Serving Myself.

I never want to reason: “I’ve done so much for everyone else—now it’s time for me. I deserve this.”

I never want to convince myself I’m entitled.

Speaking of entitlement, here’s a great quote: “The feeling of entitlement always gets me in trouble. No one owes me anything. I’m going to count my blessings instead.” —Shari Dolleman

We still have a lifetime of good stuff to do—a “good stuff” book to keep writing.

God planned it that way.

“For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” (Ephesians 2.10 NLT)

There’s plenty of good stuff—good stuff that’s not yet done…

People we’ve not yet helped.

Goals we’ve not yet accomplished.

Masterpieces we’ve not yet created.

Improvements we’ve not yet made.

Lives we’ve not yet blessed.

So, keep that book open!