Day 92

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Wise Solomon

1 Kings Introduction

As 1 Kings opens, the golden era of David''s reign is drawing to a close, and David's son, Solomon, prepares to take the throne. While the brilliant and successful Solomon is able to fulfill his father's lifelong dream by building the temple in Jerusalem, he fails to center his life on the faith it signifies (chs, 1-11). Solomon's death marks the end of a unified nation of twelve tribes, and introduces the chaotic period of the Divided Kingdom (chs. 12-22), with Israel in the North, and Judah in the South.

Scripture

April 1—1 Kings 1-4: Solomon: Third King of Israel

Observation

King David's advanced years and restricted activity create a leadership vacuum that Adonijah seeks to exploit by proclaiming himself king. Though he enjoys support from Joab the general and Abiathar the priest, Adonijah is opposed by Nathan, Zadok, and others from David's administration. God had previously made if clear and David had privately acknowledged that Solomon was his choice to succeed David. Now the time has come to make that declaration public and official. Solomon's anointing as the third king in Israel spells the beginning of the end for Adonijah's conspiracy. But while Solomon's position is secure, his need is great for godly wisdom to rule the kingdom—a request which God is only too willing to grant. And along with that wisdom, God provides the blessings Solomon could have requested by didn't: riches, victory, and honor.

Application

How would you respond if God appeared to you as he did to Solomon and extended a blank check invitation: "to ask for anything he wanted, and it would be given to him" (3:5)? Be honest! Could you resist the urge to ask for riches, power, or fame? Is there really something in this world more lasting and important than financial success? Do you place wisdom over wealth in your priorities?

Solomon's response to God's offer is exemplary. First, he recognized his need, saying "I am as a little child" (3:7). Next, he recognized his responsibility as king. And finally, he recognized his resource—the wisdom of God. You can do the same! Turn to James 1:5 and pray that verse back to God as the expression of your need for wisdom and your desire to put God's wisdom to work in one of your responsibilities today. 

Prayer

Dear God, we know that money won't buy us happiness, but wisdom will help us to figure out the source of our unhappiness. So, Father, we pray for you to give us wisdom so that we will know what to do in all areas of our lives with your guidance. In we will be so kind to give you the praise, honor and glory! In Jesus name, amen!


Seek Wisdom!


© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2019

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