God Gives More Than Requested
“Now, O Lord my God, you have made me king instead of my father, David, but I am like a little child who doesn’t know his way around. And here I am in the midst of your own chosen people, a nation so great and numerous they cannot be counted! Give me an understanding heart so that I can govern your people well and know the difference between right and wrong. For who by himself is able to govern this great people of yours?”1
Solomon is known for being the wisest king of Israel, as well as the wealthiest. In a dream, God had asked Solomon to ask for anything he wanted, but Solomon never asked for riches, instead we see his response in the verses above. His response pleased the Lord so much that the Lord gave him what he asked for, but also gave more than he had requested! Solomon was blessed with wealth and honor, and if he was obedient to the Lord, he would also live a long life.
Solomon’s example reminds me of the truth found in Matthew 6:33 “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” God wants to bless his people, but sometimes we simply don’t know how or what to ask for! We focus on the obvious matters at hand, or material possessions, when those things mean little in the larger scheme of life. God wants us to know him and seek him above all else, THEN he promises to give us all we need (and sometimes extra).
I think we would all agree that we want to be successful in this life. However, true success goes far beyond the visible riches or public recognition. It is knowing and doing God’s will and fulfilling our purpose. It is reaching others with the love of Jesus. It is knowing the difference between right and wrong… and choosing right! God, the giver of wisdom, discernment, guidance, and all good things is ready to give us what we need, we just need to ask!
Suggested prayer: Dear God, you are such a Good Father and consistently provide not only what we need but bless us in unexpected ways as well. Help me always seek you first and obey your Word because I know that true success can only be found in you. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. In Jesus’ name, amen.
1 Kings 3:7-9 (NLT).
Today's Encounter was written by: Crystal B.
All articles on this website are written by
Richard (Dick) Innes unless otherwise stated.