REQUESTS LINKED TO KINGDOM

Reference text: 1 Kings 3:1-14

If we break down Solomon’s conversation with God at Gibeon, even though he referred to himself as a ‘little child’, during this encounter, his words showed he was wise way beyond his age. It was evident his father’s gift with words had rubbed on him positively. However, beyond this, our lesson today lies in the multiple elements to his prayer:

"Therefore give to Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people, that I may discern between good and evil. For who is able to judge this great people of Yours?” (1Kings 3:9)"

1. The exact request
2. The purpose that validates the request
3. The merit for God’s people if granted

We might think it is irrelevant, but whenever we ask God for anything in prayer, as much He is benevolent, able and willing to give all we ask, there is pondering on his end “what is the gain beyond the one making the request?”. With Solomon, there was a request tied to a purpose that was other than himself hence why we read ‘this request pleased the Lord”

So much that He gives Solomon what he asked for, and went a step further:
“And I have also given you what you have not asked: both riches and honor, so that there shall not be anyone like you among the kings all your days.”(Vs 13)

With God, it’s not about His ability to give, that can happen in an instant. Our aim is to tie in our request with ‘thy Kingdom come’ – where it’s not just about us.

#sly