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What if God said, “Ask for whatever you want. Just name it. I’ll give it to you.” What would you ask for? More influence? More money? A little bigger home? A couple of bigger homes? Health? A long life? God actually gave Solomon that opportunity. He said, “Ask what I shall give you.” Check out Solomon’s response.

1 Kings 3:6-9

And Solomon said, “You have shown great and steadfast love to your servant David my father, because he walked before you in faithfulness, in righteousness, and in uprightness of heart toward you. And you have kept for him this great and steadfast love and have given him a son to sit on his throne this day. And now, O LORD my God, you have made your servant king in place of David my father, although I am but a little child. I do not know how to go out or come in. And your servant is in the midst of your people whom you have chosen, a great people, too many to be numbered or counted for multitude. Give your servant therefore an understanding mind to govern your people, that I may discern between good and evil, for who is able to govern this your great people?”

When God asked, “What can I give you?” the only thing that Solomon requested was discernment, an “understanding mind.” He realized the weighty task before him. His dad was the bigger-than-life King David, the man after God’s own heart. Solomon knew that he was young in age and experience. He needed God’s help to lead. And God granted his prayer. Solomon was noted as the wisest man in the world…until his lust turned his heart from God.

Talking Points

• Thank God for his James 1:5-6 promise: “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.”
• Acknowledge that your position as a leader, spouse, and parent is beyond your wisdom. Pray that God will give you an “understanding mind” to accomplish everything he has for you to do.
• Ask God to give each of your children a heart that desires wisdom. We cannot prepare them for everything they will face. But pray that God’s wisdom will guide them throughout their lives.

Father, I pray for discernment. The world is changing, challenges arise, and decisions need to be made—sometimes quickly and decisively. Lord, help me always seek true wisdom from you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

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Today on The Journey Broadcast:

 

The Lord is My Shepherd – Part 1