Week 20 · Old Testament · about 3 minutes · 178 words

👑 Solomon Asks for Wisdom

A young king asks God for a listening heart instead of riches, and God is glad.

Solomon became king after David. One night at Gibeon, the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Ask for whatever you want me to give you.” That is a dizzying sentence. Solomon could have asked for a long life, or victory, or piles of gold.

He asked for a listening heart so he could tell right from wrong and care for God’s people. He knew he was young for such a big job. God was pleased. Because Solomon asked for wisdom to serve, God also gave him riches and honor he had not made his goal.

Soon two women came with a painful argument about a baby. Solomon’s wise decision showed the people that God had answered the prayer. A listening heart protects the weak. Wisdom is not showing off facts. It is knowing what love should do next.

If God asked you tonight, what would you request? You can ask for wisdom for a classroom, a friendship, or a family problem. James says God gives it generously and does not scold you for needing it.

“But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach; and it will be given to him.”
James 1:5 · 1 Kings 3

Say it

Practice James 1:5

Tap the words in order. The blanks follow the verse from left to right.

ButifanyofyoulackslethimaskofGod,whotoallliberallyandwithoutreproach;anditwillbetohim.

Talk about it

What did Solomon ask for, and why did that please God?
What is the difference between being clever and being wise?
Where do you need a listening heart this week?

Prayer

God, I lack wisdom. Please give me a listening heart and help me use it to care for people. Amen.

Parent tip

For younger kids, summarize the baby case as “Solomon was careful to protect a child” without the threatening detail.

Week 20 · the whole night