Foundations Week 19, Day 4

Scripture Read: 1 Kings 3; 6
Title: Solomon Asks For Wisdom
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H.E.A.R. Entry
(H) Highlight verse:  "Give your servant therefore an understanding mind to govern your people, that I may discern between good and evil, for who is able to govern your great people?"  1 Kings 3:9

(E) Explain:  In 1 King’s 3:3 we are told, “Solomon loved the Lord, walking in the statutes of David his father…” This is a great way to start of your reign as a king.  One night in Gibeon the Lord appeared to Solomon in a dream and asked Solomon, “Ask what I shall give to you?”  Pretend for a moment that God comes to you one night and asks you for anything you want.  What would your response be?  Solomon responds, “Give your servant therefore an understanding mind to govern your people, that I may discern between good and evil, for who is able to govern this your great people?”  Solomon asks for wisdom to rule over the nation of Israel and God gives him what he asks for and also He says that He will give him not only wisdom but He will also “both riches and honor, so no other king shall compare with you, all your days.” 
God kept his word and gave to Solomon all he promised.  In 2 Chronicles 9 we read that Solomon’s wealth and wisdom were so well known that many nations heard of his fame.  The Queen of Sheba (modern day Yemen) came to visit and test Solomon to see if he was the real deal.  Solomon answers all her questions, sees his home, his table with food, his officials, his servants, his clothes, and his burnt offerings and she was speechless (2 Chron. 9:4).  She was so impressed that she gave him gold, spices and precious stones.  In return Solomon gave her anything she asked for.  Solomon had it all. 

(A) Application:  What would you ask for if God came to you and told you that He would give you anything you ask?  This would be a difficult for me to answer... because my inner righteousness wants to say, “Lord I want whatever you will give to me that will benefit your Kingdom.” However, my inner sinner says, “Lord, give me stuff!  Give me money!  Give me LOTS of money!  Give me power and influence!  I promise I will be good with it.”  Thankfully God has never come to me and we have never had this discussion.  
After reading this passage today I came to this conclusion... We are to seek the wisdom of God in all decisions in life.  We can't be afraid to ask God for big things for his glory.  Whether you are an employer, employee, student, stay home mom or dad, retiree, widow or widower seek God first in all matters of your life.  So many of us feel unqualified for life or the duties that are placed before us, seek God and his counsel.  Ask him to give you the wisdom to live your life so you may bring him honor and glory to Him. 

(R) Respond: LORD, give me wisdom daily to lead my family, your people and my own personal life for your glory and honor.