1 Kings 2-3 King David turns over his kingship to Solomon but as David dies he reminds Solomon of the treacherous men still living. Solomon’s first task as king was to “clean house” and eliminate threats. Solomon dealt with his older brother Adonijah, son of David’s first wife, who tried again to claim his throne. He dealt with Joab the general of David’s army who treacherously had killed his own competition. And Solomon dealt with the relative in Saul’s line that had cursed David. Solomon dealt with past threats he inherited from his father but how would he deal with the future?
Solomon is famous for his wisdom. As he is sworn into office, he meets with God in the tabernacle. God offers Solomon a blank check, “Ask for whatever you want me to give you.” Like his famous forefathers, Solomon realizes he has inherited a job far bigger than he can handle. Who am I that I am chosen? Solomon is famous for asking, “So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong.” God is pleased and grants Solomon a wise and discerning heart plus all he did not ask for – health, wealth, and fame. Chapter 3 closes sharing that the people “held the king in awe, because they saw that he had wisdom from God to administer justice. (3:28)”
Note that even the people recognize that Solomon’s wisdom was from God. As Solomon’s kingdom grows, his riches grow, his fame grows, and life is good, Solomon begins to loose focus on God, the I AM, and becomes lax respecting the gods of his many wives. Idolatry was not something Jehovah, I AM, tolerated. Child sacrifices to these gods were practiced and Solomon who looked so promising begins to slide.
A commercial running on Spotify now is how person A shares that she brings dedication to her job. Another brings fairness. If you were to receive a fax from God asking what gift you would like that would characterize your life, what would you ask for and why? Solomon wanted wisdom to govern others wisely and administer justice. Perhaps you would want health for you or your beloved friend. Perhaps it would be “let there be peace….and let it begin with me.” Perhaps all the world needs now is love, sweet love. Then again it might be forgiveness for that indiscriminant act of your younger years. Spend two minutes pondering and praying over what you need for that big task facing you today. Be specific. Blessings.
On the Way to Wonder 