“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?” I Kings 3:9 (I Kings 1-3 and II Chronicles 1)
As King David lived out his last days, his son Adonijah, the heir apparent, sets himself up as king. The prophet Nathan intervenes and David has Solomon anointed before he dies. Shortly afterward, God appears to Solomon in a dream, directing the young leader to make a request for anything he desires. Solomon’s answer, verses 6-9, was a humble and noble request for wisdom.
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of all wisdom. Solomon asked for much more than just academic prowess and a clever mind. He wanted to know right from wrong and longed to lead as God designed. God was pleased and through this gift Solomon gained power, wealth and fame.
Through this simple request for supreme insight, Solomon served his people justly and the kingdom prospered. If there is anything I personally feel unworthy of asking for, it is wisdom. My logical brain says I must study, research and work hard to achieve this reward, but God’s pleasure signifies otherwise. Every breath taken and every blood cell pumped through the body is a function of the human brain. Your brain is your life! And it must be given to God if you are to truly live.
Love,
Gretchen