THE PRAYER THAT preferred wisdom to gold

If God invited you to “ask for whatever you want,” what would you ask for? Money? Fame? Power?

Solomon was Israel’s new king. His father had built a strong, successful kingdom and Solomon now had the daunting task of leading the government, commanding the armies, ruling the people and serving as head of the justice system. Understandably, he was quite overwhelmed by this enormous responsibility.

One night God came to Solomon in a dream and said, “Ask for whatever you want.” What would be the one thing he’d ask for above all others?

“I can’t possibly lead this nation on my own. I’m like a child! Please give me wisdom so I can govern Your people well.”

Wisdom! Solomon could have asked for absolutely anything, and he chose to be wise. It was a choice that pleased God and made Israel a beacon of His light to the rest of the world.

Do you feel overwhelmed trying to navigate the difficulties of life? God loves it when we come to Him for help. His offer is for you as well—the New Testament writer James tells us that if any of us lacks wisdom, we should ask God and He will give it to us.

Not one of us is smart enough to navigate this world on our own; but through prayer, we don’t have to!

PRAYER: 1 Kings 18:41-43

ANSWER: 1 Kings 18:44-45