This chapter parallels 1 Ki 3. Solomon prays for wisdom when given the option to ask for anything.
“And Solomon went up there to the bronze altar before the Lord, which was at the tent of meeting, and offered a thousand burnt offerings on it. In that night God appeared to Solomon, and said to him, ‘Ask what I shall give you.’ And Solomon said to God, ‘O Lord God, let your word to David my father be now fulfilled, for you have made me king over a people as numerous as the dust of the earth. Give me now wisdom and knowledge to go out and come in before this people, for who can govern this people of yours, which is so great?’ ” (v6-10 abr)
Solomon exhibits two of the key behaviors required for a relationship with God – worship and prayer. Importantly, these external behaviors are not just external, they are from the heart. A humble heart is critical when it comes to loving and honoring God. Saul, one of Solomon’s predecessors, had a proud heart and pushed God out of his life which was his ultimate undoing. Solomon is starting out well and recognizing that he cannot fulfill God’s calling without God’s support.
“The reward for humility and fear of the Lord is riches and honor and life.” (Pro 22:4) “Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience…” (Col 3:12) “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom.” (Pro 11:2)
When we struggle with humility, as I sometimes do, we can refocus and humble ourselves before God. A helpful exercise for me is setting aside time to pray for others. By putting others ahead of our ourselves, even if it’s just for a few minutes at a time, we will foster a posture of humility. If we continue to grow in humility before God as Solomon did, worship and prayer will come even more naturally to us.
I encourage us to set aside a few minutes of uninterrupted time today to pray for our personal circles, cities and world. Those around us need God’s help, and we will bring ourselves closer into alignment with God’s heart for the people of this world. Being in closer alignment with God could only be a good thing.
Father God, our Lord, Savior and King, great and mighty is Your name. We worship and adore You for You alone are worthy of our praise. Father we long to be a humble people, putting Your will and Your children ahead of our own selfishness. Please humble us gently Father, and teach us the heart of Jesus who loved everyone unconditionally, and gave His own life to save them/us. Thank you for Your grace, mercy, strength and wisdom upon us. We honor, glorify and praise You, forever and ever, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training