2 Chronicles 1:7-13New Living Translation
“That night God appeared to Solomon and said to him: ‘Ask. What should I give you?’” And Solomon said to God: “Now grant me wisdom and knowledge so that I may lead these people, for who can judge this great people of Yours?”
This is a remarkable story, especially in light of our society today and what is seen as important. David’s son Solomon had been made king, succeeding his father who came before him. God came to Solomon and offered to give him anything that he desired from God’s vast creation. In other words, he was given carte blanche to choose anything his heart desired. Solomon asked for nothing more then “wisdom & knowledge” to lead his people Israel.
Solomon’s request came from a Godly heart; one that burned after God. Solomon is the same person who after experiencing all life had to offer, turn about and said that everything in this life is a chasing after the wind; meaning it was unattainable. Only God was worth seeking after and serving with your whole heart.
If you were faced with the same offer, what would your request of God be? Your request would undoubtedly be a clear reflection of what is in your heart. Financial wealth and material possessions in and of themselves are not at all harmful. It’s all about how you attain them and what you do with them after they had been attained that truly matters most. Seeking wisdom to lead others is a selflessrequest, because it enables you to bless and encourage others instead of yourself. Blessing yourself is an empty gesture that brings no lasting satisfaction. Ponder the significance of Solomon’s astounding request and then read the rest of 2 Chronicles to see the consequences of that request. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing!
2 Chronicles 1:7-13New Living Translation- “That night God appeared to Solomon and said to him: ‘Ask. What should I give you?’”8 And Solomon said to God: ‘You have shown great and faithful love to my father David, and You have made me king in his place. 9 Lord God, let Your promise to my father David now come true. For You have made me king over a people as numerous as the dust of the earth. 10 Now grant me wisdom and knowledge so that I may lead these people, for who can judge this great people of Yours?’11 God said to Solomon, ‘Since this was in your heart, and you have not requested riches, wealth, or glory, or for the life of those who hate you, and you have not even requested long life, but you have requested for yourself wisdom and knowledge that you may judge My people over whom I have made you king, 12 wisdom and knowledge are given to you. I will also give you riches, wealth, and glory, unlike what was given to the kings who were before you, or will be given to those after you.” 13 So Solomon went to Jerusalem fromthe high place that was in Gibeon in front of the tent of meeting, and he reigned over Israel.’”
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