The Right Request

Day 336.
God answered Solomon, “Because this was in your heart, and you have not asked possessions, wealth, honor, or the life of those who hate you, and have not even asked long life, but have asked wisdom and knowledge for yourself that you may govern my people over whom I have made you king, wisdom and knowledge are granted to you. I will also give you riches, possessions, and honor, such as none of the kings had who were before you, and none after you shall have the like.” (2 Chronicles 1:11, 12 ESV)

If Gold told you to ask Him for something, anything at all, for what would you ask? Upon becoming king, Solomon asks for wisdom and knowledge to govern God’s people well. God is moved by it. It is a request that should get our attention too. In the request Solomon recognizes that he has been raised up to serve (even though he is king) people that are God’s and not his. The reques itself is wise and provides an excellent model. You too have been called to serve others and are in need of God to equip you appropriately to that calling.

But it is also amazing to see how God answers. God showers him with all of the good stuff that Solomon did not ask for but clearly would like. God showers him with good gifts! God is eager to see his children blessed. Jesus instructs us to seek first His kingdom and His righteousness and all these other things will be added to you. God isn’t trying to get by with giving you the minimum. He wants to lavish you with good gifts! But you must learn to trust him.

Solomon is unique in one regard. He is the Lord’s anointed. He is the forerunner to Christ who sits on God’s throne and rules over you. You want a wise king and a wealthy and generous king and God supplies you with one!

If Gold told you to ask Him for something, anything at all, for what would you ask?

Give thanks for your king’s wisdom and your God’s generosity.

McCheyne’s reading plan: 2 Ch 1, 1 Jn 1, Mi 7, Ps 108-109