Submitted by Visitor (not verified) on Fri, 04/12/2009 – 14:21
Bible Book: 1 Kings / 1 Konings
Chapter: 3
Verse: 4 – 15
1 Kings 3:4-15

“Solomon’s prayer for wisdom” seems to be a good heading for this passage from Scripture. However, upon reading the passage carefully, it becomes clear that Solomon’s request in verse 9 is not only about wisdom – especially not the cleverness and brainpower that are often highly regarded in our times.

Firstly Solomon asks for a heart that can listen (v 9a). This is not a self-centered request, because the reason for this request is that he will need it to rightly govern God’s people (v 9b). Good government will only be possible if he understands the difference between good and bad (v 9c). God approves of his request and summarises it in verse 11 with three words: “understanding (to) discern judgment” (AV). He furthermore promises to give him “a wise and discerning heart” (v 12 – NIV).

What would you pray for if God were to send you this special invitation: “What do you want? Ask, and I will give it to you!” (v 5 – NLT)?

It seems easy to answer on the same lines as Solomon’s prayer. But let’s be honest – what was the most earnest prayer that you have prayed in the last week?

“Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need”, Jesus said according to Mat 6:33 (NLT).

Although he lived centuries before Christ came, the young Solomon understood an important principle of God’s Kingdom – it often begins with God giving us a new heart that can listen, understand and discern the needs of people.

To think about or discuss: Should we change our prayers in this time of HIV and Aids and economic hardship?

Author: N du Toit (Ds)
Language: English