Solomon Requests Wisdom

I Kings 3:1–15
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The scene shifts in this chapter from Solomon taking care of his enemies to taking care of the kingdom. In verse one we find him forming a marriage alliance with Pharaoh, King of Egypt, for his daughter which was clearly a diplomatic alliance. Solomon was not as careful about marrying non-Israelites as he should have been (Ex. 34:16).

Solomon began his reign in the steps of his father David, in love and obedience to the Lord. We see his dedication to the Lord as he goes to the place of worship. From the time the Israelites arrived in Canaan, the central place of worship had shifted from one location to another. God had not yet chosen a permanent and exclusive place for His worship. So Solomon went to Gibeon to make sacrifice. Just the fact that the King selected Gibeon made this the principal place of worship.

The Lord appeared to Solomon in a dream. Such revelations were not uncommon in ancient Israel (Gen. 28:10-15). God told Solomon that he could ask for whatever he wanted. In response to this offer the King did not seek personal gain, but something far more practical, wisdom. His request pleased the Lord, who granted him both the wisdom which he sought and the other benefits for which he had not asked (vv. 12-13). God also promised him length of days if he would obey Him. This promise was never fully realized (11:42) because of his apostasy later in life.

Application

Notice that Solomon asked for wisdom to carry out his job. He did not ask God to do his job for him. I should not ask God to do for me what He wants to do through me.