2 Chronicles 1:7-10: (NASB) “In that night God appeared to Solomon and said to him, Ask what I shall give you. Solomon said to God, You have dealt with my father David with great lovingkindness, and have made me king in his place. Now, O LORD God, Your promise to my father David is fulfilled, for You have made me king over a people as numerous as the dust of the earth. Give me now wisdom and knowledge, that I may go out and come in before this people, for who can rule this great people of Yours?”

Solomon was given an open-ended invitation by God to ask for whatever he wants and responds to it with great humility.

Observations:

· He began by recalling God’s mercy to his father David.

· He continued by being God-centered – Your promise to my father David is fulfilled.

· He continued in humility – You have made me king over Israel… He did not brag that he inherited the throne, as was his right. If we contrast Solomon with King Nebuchadnezzar in bragging about the greatness of Babylon due to his own greatness, (Daniel 4:30: “Is not this the great Babylon I have built as the royal residence, by my mighty power and for the glory of my majesty?”) we see Solomon’s humility against Nebuchadnezzar’s conceit. As a result of his pride, Nebuchadnezzar lost his mind and spent seven years living like an animal, eating grass.

· Based on understanding integrity and humility, Solomon now asks for wisdom and knowledge.

· He reiterates that he is to rule the people of God – he wanted wisdom and knowledge so that he could rule God’s people with integrity, not his (Solomon’s) kingdom. This is profound humility!

Understanding, integrity and humility are fertile ground to plant the seeds of wisdom:
2 Chronicles 1:11-13: “God said to Solomon, Because you had this in mind (this Hebrew word “mind” means the inner man, the heart; not just an intellectual decision), and did not ask for riches, wealth or honor, or the life of those who hate you, nor have you even asked for long life, but you have asked for yourself wisdom and knowledge that you may rule My people over whom I have made you king, wisdom and knowledge have been granted to you. And I will give you riches and wealth and honor, such as none of the kings who were before you has possessed nor those who will come after you. So Solomon went from the high place which was at Gibeon, from the tent of meeting, to Jerusalem, and he reigned over Israel. Solomon reigned with wisdom and knowledge, at least at the beginning.”

God’s answer to Solomon’s humble request for wisdom was a resounding YES! God blessed him and he blessed others.

Additional Resources:
Christian Questions Podcast
Episode #1202: “Is Anyone Listening to the Wisdom of the Bible?”
Uncovering how true wisdom works and why it is so rare
Preview Video
CQ Rewind Show Notes

Episode #1244: “What Can We Learn from One of the Wisest Men on Earth?”
Breaking down the incredible wisdom and life advice of King Solomon
Preview Video
CQ Rewind Show Notes

For children, parents and Bible class teachers:
Animated CQ Kids videos
What are some wisdom lessons for children about God?
What are some wisdom lessons for children about our words?
What are some wisdom lessons for children about our character?
What are some wisdom lessons for children about our actions? Part 1
What are some wisdom lessons for children about our actions? Part 2
What are some wisdom lessons for children from the Apostle Paul?