March 12

Now therefore, order that cedars of Lebanon be cut down for me. My servants will be with your servants, and I will pay your servants whatever wages you set, for you know that there are none among us as skilled in logging as the Sidonians. — 1 Kgs 5:6 BSB

Solomon was determined that only the best would go into the Temple. Nothing flawed, nothing unworthy could be used in that sacred building for God.

In the building of our character, we should also use only what is beautiful and worthy. We should read the best books, so that our life’s temple is built with the purest thoughts the world has to offer.

Our friendships also play a big role in shaping our character, so we should choose only good and true friends. Above all, we should read the Bible, which contains God’s words and thoughts—like pure, flawless marble without any blemish.

We should also keep close to Christ because He is the truest, most inspiring Friend we can have. In the work we do in others’ lives, we should offer only our best. We must never leave a mark on someone’s character, whether through our words, actions, or influence, that isn’t pure enough to be seen by Christ’s holy eyes.