Day 151 – 1 Kings 3-4

Talking Points

• Solomon follows David as King of Israel. His dad had raised him to share his heart for God, and we see “he loved the LORD” (3:3). The Hebrew word for loved translates “dearly love, hold affection for.” Of all the remarkable things that David is remembered for, no greater legacy exists than a child who dearly loves God. A lesson for all generations!
• However, notice in this same verse, we find the word “except.” Be sure, God calls for a whole-hearted commitment of love. These exceptions will come back to hurt Solomon and the kingdom.
• Solomon is successful in every area of his reign. God’s people are blessed, and the kingdom is firmly established.
• God favors Solomon and tells him He will grant whatever he asks. In an amazing revelation of his heart, Solomon asks for wisdom in order to best lead God’s people. God grants his request and Solomon is recorded as the wisest man to ever live. He is credited with 1005 songs and 3000 proverbs.

Thoughts

In this popular, often-cited account, we find one of the great needs of man — wisdom. While many might be tempted to be shortsighted and choose instant gratification — riches, success, or health — Solomon makes the profitable choice in choosing wisdom. With wisdom he will find success. With wisdom he can secure prosperity. With wisdom his decisions will promote health and happiness. And the best part is, in his decision to seek wisdom, he receives Godly wisdom.

As much as we admire the choice of Solomon and then marvel at his wisdom, we should not miss this: God makes us the same deal. If we want to toil and chase after worldly ideas of success, He will let us. We may even succeed for a time. But, if it is true wisdom we want, God graciously and freely gives it to us! In His Word, he gives us His wisdom. He wants us to have it. He even encourages us by telling us that if it’s wisdom we need, we just have to ask for it, and we will receive it generously (James 1:5).

The example of Solomon is: Be wise enough to seek wisdom. Praise the Lord who gives it abundantly!