If you have been reading my devotionals over the last several months, you have most likely encountered a theme of surrender. Unless we give everything over to God and live according to His will and power, we cannot live the full abundant life for which we were created. Nor can we bring glory to God on a daily basis. For this reason, I am constantly praying for wisdom. God wants us to seek Him for His wisdom in all we do and all the decisions we make.
Proverbs is often called the book of wisdom. The author, Solomon had greater wisdom than all the men of the East. “Men of all nations came to listen to Solomon’s wisdom, sent by all the kings of the world, who had heard of his wisdom” (1 Kings 4:34). What is most incredible is how Solomon gained this wisdom. Most of us are familiar with the children’s story about Aladdin and his genie. He was given three chances to wish for whatever he wanted and it would be granted to him. Sadly, many people think of God that way. As if God’s whole purpose is to be a genie to satisfy man’s desires. Our prayer life can reflect this wrong type of attitude. In actuality, God created us to know and serve Him and satisfy His purpose on earth. Therefore, our prayers should be that of continually asking God for wisdom to know and obey His will.
In this particular time in history, God did indeed say to Solomon: “Ask for whatever you want me to give you” (1 Kings 3:5). I think this was most likely a test from God to reveal Solomon’s heart. He passed the test with flying colors! He asked for “a discerning heart to govern God’s people and to distinguish between right and wrong” (1 Kings 3:9). God was so pleased that he asked for wisdom rather than wealth, long life, or revenge on his enemies. As a reward, God said: “I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there will never have been anyone like you, nor will there ever be!” (1 Kings 3:12).
Take a moment to evaluate your prayer life. Does it reflect that of Solomon’s? Are you daily asking for wisdom and discernment so that you can carry out His will and purpose for your life? The Lord says that we can ask Him for anything and He will give it to us. He also says to ask according to His will. Asking for wisdom to live according to His purposes will bring delight to God’s heart and abundance to your life.
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