“Now, O Lord my God, you have made your servant King, instead of my father David, but I am a little child…Therefore, give to your servant an understanding heart to judge your people, that I may discern between good and evil…” – 1st Kings 3:7-9 (NKJV)
Solomon’s prayer for wisdom was a cry of HELP to God, as he was appointed King over the great nation of Israel. It would have seemed like a herculean and intimidating task to any child given such serious responsibility (1st Kings 3:7). Young Solomon, however, knew the Lord (Verse 3), so when the appointment was made, he sought help from Him. In a dream, God said, “…Ask! what shall I give you?” (Verse 5).
Just like Solomon, sometimes in our lives, we face difficult situations or insurmountable tasks that we do not understand how to solve. Seek help from the Lord, and just like He answered Solomon, He can do the same for you. He has all the answers to our problems (1st John 3:20). Solomon’s prayer is a great pattern to use as we go before the Lord – seek wisdom.
Prayer is necessary for growth and success in all aspects of our lives since we communicate with God. It brings us closer to Him, allowing us to know Him intimately. Just as intimacy in marriage creates deep and meaningful relationships between husband and wife, so does intimacy with God through prayer create meaningful spiritual relationships that can ‘wow’ us.
This intimacy fosters spiritual growth, strength, and consistency in our Christian walk. It opens necessary doors to enable us to fulfil our God-given destiny. It is that tool that Jesus encourages us to use, thus enabling souls to be saved and to stay saved in Christ in all aspects of our lives.
We should note that God responded to Solomon’s request. Verse 10 says, “The speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked for this thing.” Clearly, God was happy with his request and gave His response in Verses 12-14, where he answered and granted Solomon’s request and even added things he did not ask for. Most importantly, he made him the wisest king that ever lived on earth, then or ever after.
Brothers and sisters, there is nothing too hard for God to do (Jeremiah 32:17). Let us continue to trust Him and seek His guidance in all we do, whether at work, school, or play. For the One Who has the best plans for you (Jeremiah 29:11) will grant all that you need to succeed on this journey called living. Blessed be the name of the Lord.
Read: Ephesians 3:14-19; James 1:5
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 109:1-20; Galatians 5:7-26; Isaiah 47; Isaiah 48; Isaiah 49:1-7