2 Chronicles 1:7-12
In that night God appeared to Solomon, and said to him, “Ask what I shall give you.” And Solomon said to God, “You have shown great and steadfast love to David my father, and have made me king in his place. O Lord God, let your word to David my father be now fulfilled, for you have made me king over a people as numerous as the dust of the earth. Give me now wisdom and knowledge to go out and come in before this people, for who can govern this people of yours, which is so great?” God answered Solomon, “Because this was in your heart, and you have not asked for possessions, wealth, honor, or the life of those who hate you, and have not even asked for long life, but have asked for wisdom and knowledge for yourself that you may govern my people over whom I have made you king, wisdom and knowledge are granted to you. I will also give you riches, possessions, and honor, such as none of the kings had who were before you, and none after you shall have the like.”
Tag: God gives wisdom
Imagine asking a normal young man, today, who is in his early 20s the above question: "Ask. What I shall give you." What would most of them say? That is the approximate age of Solomon when God asked him that question. Solomon does not ask for riches or prestige or popularity or possessions. Solomon asked for wisdom. Most youth would have never thought to ask for wisdom. Most would be focused on the immediate and the comfort of now. Few would focus on others. Solomon was focused on doing a great job of leading God's people. He knew, to do that, he would need something he simply did not have and could not get on the street. God gives us wisdom and He is the only one who can give it. Note James' words on this subject:
James 1:5-6
If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind.
It might be assumed that James had this story in mind when he wrote his passage in his little book. Other kings and other leaders in the world had money and prestige and popularity. Solomon wanted a connection with God and wanted to be able to do the job gave him to do. That would take extraordinary wisdom and understanding. God granted his request.
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