So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. – 1 Kings 3:9
Solomon is now king of Israel.| WATCH ON YOUTUBE
The Bible says Solomon showed his love for the Lord by walking according to the instructions given him by his father David. And so, God appeared to him and asked him to ask for whatever he wanted.
Solomon’s now-famous request for wisdom pleased God. God responds to Solomon’s request by promising him three different gifts, two unconditional and one conditional. God gave Solomon the gift of wisdom that he asked for (v12). 1 Kings 4:29-34 records the details of Solomon’s immense wisdom that God gave.
God also gave Solomon wealth and fame. God gave him something that he had not asked for, riches and honor (v13). Solomon would be known as the wealthiest king of his era.
The third gift God gave him was conditional, a long life based on Solomon’s obedience. If Solomon would walk in obedience to God, then he would live long (v14). The Bible records that Solomon’s obedience was mixed. Though Solomon began well, as his humble request for wisdom shows, he did not end well. He later disobeyed God.
It is not enough to begin well; we need to finish well too. Obedience to God proves our love for Him (1 John 5:2-3), shows our faithfulness to Him (1 John 2:3-6), glorifies Him in the world (1 Peter 2:12) and opens paths of blessing for us (John 13:17). The extent of our obedience to God will determine the direction our lives will take.
In which direction is your life going?
Lord, please help me be faithful to you to the very end of my life, I pray.
Extended Reading — 1 Kings 3-4; 2 Chronicles 1; Psalm 72
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