1 Kings 3:4-15, CEB
The king went to the great shrine at Gibeon in order to sacrifice there. He used to offer a thousand entirely burned offerings on that altar. The Lord appeared to Solomon at Gibeon in a dream at night. God said, “Ask whatever you wish, and I’ll give it to you.”
Solomon responded, “You showed so much kindness to your servant my father David when he walked before you in truth, righteousness, and with a heart true to you. You’ve kept this great loyalty and kindness for him and have now given him a son to sit on his throne. And now, Lord my God, you have made me, your servant, king in my father David’s place. But I’m young and inexperienced. I know next to nothing. But I’m here, your servant, in the middle of the people you have chosen, a large population that can’t be numbered or counted due to its vast size. Please give your servant a discerning mind in order to govern your people and to distinguish good from evil, because no one is able to govern this important people of yours without your help.”
It pleased the Lord that Solomon had made this request. God said to him, “Because you have asked for this instead of requesting long life, wealth, or victory over your enemies—asking for discernment so as to acquire good judgment— I will now do just what you said. Look, I hereby give you a wise and understanding mind. There has been no one like you before now, nor will there be anyone like you afterward. I now also give you what you didn’t ask for: wealth and fame. There won’t be a king like you as long as you live. And if you walk in my ways and obey my laws and commands, just as your father David did, then I will give you a very long life.”
Solomon awoke and realized it was a dream. He went to Jerusalem and stood before the chest containing the Lord’s covenant. Then he offered entirely burned offerings and well-being sacrifices, and held a celebration for all his servants.
A Heart of Wisdom
In Manhattan last night, both teams faced pivotal moments. For KU, a crucial fumble ended their hopes of breaking a sixteen-year drought. For K-State, wisdom under pressure led to a game-winning field goal. These moments of decision – whether to dive forward or protect the ball, trust your preparation, or doubt yourself – reveal some part of what lies in our hearts. Today’s scripture presents another defining moment when God offered young Solomon anything he desired. Solomon’s response would reveal his true character, perhaps like players facing a critical fourth quarter. But unlike last night’s game, where only one team could emerge victorious, Solomon’s story teaches us that God’s wisdom is available to all who humbly seek it.
This ancient text breathes with life, speaking to us across the centuries. As we explore Solomon’s encounter with God, we can reflect on our relationship with wisdom and divine guidance. This story isn’t just about a king long ago; it’s about us here and now.
How do we seek God’s wisdom in our lives? As you listen today, jot down any thoughts or questions that arise. Notice how this passage echoes the Bible’s themes of God’s generosity and human responsibility. It also points forward to Jesus, the embodiment of divine wisdom.
Over the past two weeks, we’ve journeyed through Scripture, exploring God’s knowledge of us and our role in building God’s kingdom. Rev. Bruce Emmert reminded us of God’s ever-present love in Psalm 139. Last week, we witnessed David’s desire to build a house for God, learning that our plans often pale compared to God’s grander vision for us.
Today, we turn to Solomon, David’s son, as he takes the reins of leadership. In 1 Kings 3, we see a young king grappling with the weight of responsibility, much like his father before him. But where David sought to build a physical house for God, Solomon sought something intangible yet invaluable: wisdom.
This progression reveals a more profound truth about our relationship with God. From being known to partnering in God’s work to seeking divine guidance, we’re invited into an ever-deepening communion with our Creator. As we explore Solomon’s request, reflect on how we, too, can seek God’s wisdom in our lives and service.
The passage of 1 Kings 3:4-15 is set in the early days of Solomon’s reign, around 970 BCE. This era marked a significant transition in Israel’s history as the nation moved from the charismatic leadership of judges and prophets to a more structured monarchy. The story unfolds in Gibeon, a crucial high place where sacrifices were offered before the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem.
Culturally and politically, Israel was at a crossroads. The kingdom, united under Saul and solidified by David, was at its peak but faced challenges from surrounding nations. The religious landscape was complex, with the worship of the God of Israel central yet still influenced by local Canaanite practices.
This passage sets the tone for Solomon’s reign. It follows the political maneuvering of his ascension and precedes accounts of his wisdom and building projects. As part of the broader biblical narrative, it bridges the gap between David’s era and Israel’s golden age under Solomon.
This passage uses a dream narrative, a standard device in ancient Near Eastern literature for divine communication. The dialogue between God and Solomon forms the core of the text, with God’s open-ended offer and Solomon’s response revealing character and values. The repetition of “wisdom” and “discernment” emphasizes the passage’s central theme.
The text explores several vital theological concepts. It highlights the importance of humility before God, wisdom over material wealth, and the responsibility of leadership. Solomon’s request for a “discerning mind” reflects a Hebrew understanding of wisdom as practical discernment rather than mere intellect.
This passage echoes biblical stories of divine-human encounters, such as Jacob’s dream at Bethel or Moses’ dialogue with God. It also foreshadows Jesus’ teachings on seeking God’s kingdom first. The promise of additional blessings for Solomon mirrors God’s covenant with David in 2 Samuel.
The central message of this text is the importance of divine wisdom in leadership and life. It teaches that true wisdom comes from God and is more valuable than worldly success. Solomon’s choice to prioritize the ability to govern justly over personal gain presents a servant leadership model. This passage invites readers to consider their priorities and to seek God’s wisdom in facing life’s challenges, setting the stage for reflection on how we might apply these principles in our contemporary context.
God’s offer to Solomon resonates across generations, challenging us to consider what we truly value. Imagine standing at the edge of adulthood, faced with crucial decisions about education, career, and relationships. The pressure to chase success, defined by grades or job titles, can be overwhelming. Yet, Solomon’s choice reminds us that true wisdom surpasses these external markers.
Solomon’s humility speaks volumes for those navigating family life and career advancement. When juggling the demands of raising children, maintaining a household, and excelling professionally, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters. Solomon’s request for a “discerning mind” offers a powerful alternative to the relentless pursuit of achievement and acclaim.
Solomon’s priorities challenge us to redefine our legacy as we enter our golden years and reflect on a lifetime of experiences. Beyond accumulating wealth or accolades, what wisdom can we pass down to future generations? How can we use our hard-earned insights to benefit our communities?
1 Kings invites us to seek discernment in our daily choices. This might mean pausing before responding to a friend’s social media post, considering the long-term impact of a financial decision, or reflecting on how to approach a family disagreement. When we prioritize wisdom and justice, other blessings often follow.
This passage challenges us to examine our prayers and aspirations. Are we asking God for things that merely benefit ourselves or for the ability to serve others more effectively? By seeking God’s wisdom, like Solomon, we open ourselves to a life of deeper purpose and more meaningful impact, regardless of age or circumstances.
The good news is that God’s generous offer to Solomon extends to each of us today. In Christ, we see the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promise to grant wisdom and understanding. Jesus embodies divine wisdom, inviting us into a relationship that transforms our hearts and minds. Where Solomon received wisdom for leadership, we accept the Holy Spirit living in us and guiding us in every aspect of life.
This passage reminds us that God delights in our sincere requests for growth and understanding. Just as God was pleased with Solomon’s humble appeal, God rejoices when we seek wisdom to serve others and build God’s kingdom. Through Christ, we have access to knowledge that surpasses human understanding, enabling us to navigate life’s complexities with grace and discernment.
So, I invite you to start each day this week by asking God for a “discerning mind” – a willingness to hear and respond to divine guidance in daily interactions. Second, identify one area of your life where you need greater discernment and commit to studying what Scripture says about it. Finally, look for an opportunity to offer wise counsel or support to someone in need, reflecting God’s love and wisdom to others.
Last night, the Jayhawks learned a hard lesson about self-inflicted mistakes – how often do we face the same struggle spiritually? Solomon teaches us that true victory comes not from personal achievement but from seeking God’s wisdom to serve others. When we face life’s fourth quarters, God invites us to make choices not from fear of failure but from hearts prepared by divine guidance. As you go into the week, choose, like Solomon, to seek the wisdom that leads to lasting impact rather than temporary triumph. Will you pray with me?
Holy God, shape our hearts to desire what you desire. Grant us wisdom to serve your people and build your kingdom. Guide us in using your gifts for others. Amen.
~ Rev. Andrew Conard
