TEXT:

‘The Lord appeared to Solomon in a dream by night; and God said, “Ask! What shall I give you?” …. Give to your servant an understanding heart to judge your people, that I may discern between good and evil’ – 1 Kings 3:5 & 9

THOUGHT:

Today’s generation is not slow when it comes to asking, particularly in the run up to Christmas (now less than 150 days away!). Clever, manipulative, in your face advertising creates millions of reasons to spend your money. If they are not careful, parents can all too easily over-spend in an effort to satisfy their children’s wish list!

It is amazing in a world where so many have so much that thankfulness and contentment are so often the missing ingredients. How thoroughly selfish society has become!

Today’s Teaching focuses on how King Solomon’s life changed dramatically after God appeared to him in a dream and challenged him to ask for whatever he wanted, (read 1 Kings 3:5-15 for the full account). The Book of James states, ‘You do not have because you do not ask’ – 4:2. Jesus responded countless times to people asking Him for help, resulting in miraculous healings and deliverances from satanic influences. They all had a pressing need when Jesus asked, “What do you want Me to do for you?”

Solomon however, is asked this question totally by surprise and in the middle of the night! God wakes him up and says, “Ask! What shall I give you?” The outcome of this strange encounter reveals some amazing truths about both Solomon and God.

• Solomon was not ashamed to say that he needed help

He told God he was inexperienced and did not know everything about being a good king. How rare a response was that when people are usually so proud, arrogant and self-reliant. Solomon was the newly appointed king of a small but powerful nation yet admits, “I do not have all the answers, I need Your help.” He had seen how his father David had relied on God and this fuelled his desire to do likewise.

Perhaps reading this, you are reminded of past godly influences in your life. It’s not too late to tell God now, “I do not have all the answers I need Your help today.” That kind of praying gets God’s attention very quickly!

• Solomon wanted God’s help in order to bless other people

He wanted to be a just ruler, handling people in the right way. When we want God’s help to be a blessing to others, it will surely come. It is a measure of greatness when we desire to bless others more than to be blessed ourselves.

• God was pleased with Solomon’s request – ‘… pleased the Lord that Solomon has asked this thing’ v10

Proverbs states, ‘When a man’s ways please the Lord, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him’ – 16:7. Solomon’s reign was marked by great peace. The Bible summed up Enoch’s life as, ‘He had this testimony, that he pleased God’ – Hebrews 11:5. It was the same with Jesus, ‘This is My Beloved Son in whom I am well pleased’ – Matthew 3:17.

Beware trying to please everyone but God for He is the One you have an appointment with after death. ‘Without faith it is impossible to please Him’ – Hebrews 11:6. This is why He has given everyone a deposit of faith, so we can use it to respond in a way that is pleasing to God.

• God gave Solomon much more than he asked for

He answered his prayer for wisdom in a remarkable way. Now nearly 3000 years later, we still talk about the Wisdom of Solomon. Within a few days of that dream, Solomon displayed wisdom concerning a dispute about a baby and its rightful mother – 1 Kings 3:16-28. His handling of the matter made it abundantly clear that he was going to rule and reign wisely and justly.

But God did not just give Solomon wisdom, He gave him things he could have asked for but did not – riches, long-life and honour. Solomon’s reign was marked by wisdom and wealth!

If tonight God asked you the same question, what would your answer be? Do you only think about yourself, or are you facing situations and problems you do not have all the answers for, or the experience to handle? God can and wants to help you. Do not wait for a dream or some other special encounter. You can call out for God’s help today! Asking for the right things in the right way means you will get a response that will be beyond your expectations.

‘Call to me and I will answer you. I’ll tell you marvellous and wondrous things that you could never figure out on your own’ – Jeremiah 33:3 The Message