Tuesday, July 23, 2013

Discernment to Understand Justice (Solomon's Prayer)


GOD said to Solomon: Ask what shall I give you

- Yahweh appeared to Solomon at Gibeon in a dream
- Solomon was given opportunity to ask what shall be given to him

David, the righteous king before God

- God did great kindness to King David because he walked before God in truth, righteousness and uprightness of heart
- David made great mistakes (adultery, murder, etc.) but he confessed his sins, asked forgiveness and walked a righteous path before God
- Solomon was crowned king after David



***********************************************************

Solomon Asks Discernment to Understand Justice
- Solomon accepts that he is young and does not know how to rule and how to be a leader
- Solomon will govern a multitude of Israelites
- Solomon asks God for:
   - an understanding heart       
      - to judge the people
      - to discern between good and evil

 

************************************************************ 



God was pleased of Solomon's Prayer
- God gaved Solomon discernment to understand judgment
- God gaved Solomon a wise and understanding heart
- God made Solomon the wisest human king

God gave additional blessings (bonuses) to Solomon that he did not asked for

- riches and honor beyond compare to any other king before or after him

Condition to prolong Solomon's life

- if he walk in God's ways to keep God's statutes and commands
- then
- God will prolong Solomon's days


Bible reference verses:
1 Kings 3: 5-14