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“She came to Jerusalem with a very great retinue, with camels that bore spices, very much gold and precious stones; and when she came to Solomon, she spoke with him about all that was in her heart.” 1 Kings 10:2

If I was invited to come before the president, I would bring him my best gift. Why? Because I was taught that you never show up empty-handed when invited into the presence of someone great. It doesn’t matter the size of the gift or the type of gift given, what matters is that it’s your best.

It reminds me of the story of Jesus standing in the temple with his disciples. They watched as each person dropped their offerings into the bucket. All the wealthy people were making a big deal of what they dropped in, but when a widow woman put her penny in, Jesus said she gave more than all the rest. Why? Because it was her best.

I used to just plop down and begin talking to the Lord until one day I realized how dishonoring I was being. Now when I come before the King of all kings, I bring Him my best gifts, my worship, my song, the sweet incense of my sorrow, my joy, and I tell Him all that is in my heart. I will never come empty handed again. Nothing I have to say is more important than the protocol of honor.

“Then she gave the king one hundred and twenty talents of gold, spices in great quantity, and precious stones. There never again came such abundance of spices as the Queen of Sheba gave to King Solomon.” 1 Kings 10:10

I believe this is a picture of the bride of Christ today as we come to Him. What is your best? I’m not talking monetary gifts, although I believe it’s important we give that way. Remember that God doesn’t look at the outward appearance of a man, but on his heart. If your heart is broken, offer it to Him and He will put it back together better than it was. If it’s all you have, give it to Him.

One of my favorite songs was written by Bill and Gloria Gather years ago. The title is, Something Beautiful. I encourage you to look it up but here are the words:

If there ever were dreams that were lofty and noble, they were my dreams from the start. And hopes for life’s best were the hopes that I harbored, down deep in my heart. But my dreams turned to ashes, my castles all crumbled, my fortunes turned to loss. So I wrapped them up, in the rags of my life and laid it at the cross.

Something Beautiful. Something good. All my confusion, He understood. All I had to offer Him was brokenness and strife, but He made something beautiful of my life.

As you come before the King today, bring the simplicity of your best gift and lay it before Him. Lay your heart down low in humility as you express your thankfulness for all He’s provided. Ask forgiveness for trying to do it all on your own and let Him know how much you need Him. Offer Him your life for the gift of His Son. Except the touch of His hand on your heart as He sets it on fire with a burning desire for Him.

Daily Burning,

Sandy G