1 Kings 3
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1 Kings 3:7-14, “Now, Lord my God, you have made your servant king in place of my father David. But I am only a little child and do not know how to carry out my duties. Your servant is here among the people you have chosen, a great people, too numerous to count or number. So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this great people of yours?”
The Lord was pleased that Solomon had asked for this. So God said to him, “Since you have asked for this and not for long life or wealth for yourself, nor have asked for the death of your enemies but for discernment in administering justice, I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there will never have been anyone like you, nor will there ever be. Moreover, I will give you what you have not asked for—both wealth and honor—so that in your lifetime you will have no equal among kings. And if you walk in obedience to me and keep my decrees and commands as David your father did, I will give you a long life.”
It seems that Solomon starts his reign out fairly well. Solomon was following God’s laws, making the appropriate sacrifices, and walking with the Lord. Then, Solomon, recognizing his own immaturity and lack of experience, asks God for a discerning, obedient heart so that he can administer wisdom in his kingdom. This pleases God because Solomon doesn’t ask for selfish favors, but rather the ability to help other people. In response, God grants wisdom, wealth, and fame to Solomon. The only caveat to all this is that Solomon continues to obey God’s commands.
In the last part of this chapter, we get a glimpse into Solomon’s new wisdom being tested. It’s a very famous story so be sure to read through it if you didn’t already. Solomon administers justice with compassion.
Let’s pray…Lord, We all need your wisdom and discernment. Help us be aware of you at work in our lives and help us make wise and compassionate decisions in a way that point others toward you. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.