I Kings 5-6; II Chronicles 2-3
Returning to the historical narrative, we see Solomon undertaking the building of the Temple in accordance with David’s plans and preparations. Solomon enters into a contract with Hiram, king of Tyre, to supply lumber. In so doing, Solomon says this:
The house that I am to build will be great, for our God is greater than all gods. But who is able to build Him a house, since heaven, even highest heaven, cannot contain Him? Who am I to build a house for Him, except as a place to make offerings before Him?
II Chronicles 2:5-6
Solomon here expresses a desire to honor God along with a healthy dose of humility. He recognizes that God deserves something magnificent but also understands that anything he builds is bound to be wholly inadequate. Even so, Solomon does not let that inadequacy stop him from moving forward. He presses on to do what he can.
We would do well to maintain a similar mindset. We should, of course, strive to honor God in everything we do, but it is ludicrous to think that God is somehow dependent on anything we do “for” Him. He does not need anything that we can offer — not our money, not our time, not our talents — but He deserves everything.