“Now, Lord my God, you have made your servant king in place of my father David. But I am only a little child and do not know how to carry out my duties.

1 Kings 3:7

Stepping into the shoes of a great leader is always intimidating. The nagging question for the successor is always whether they are as capable as their predecessor. “Will the people accept my leadership? How can I effectively work through all the entrenched positions as my predecessor did? Can I bring healing to the bruised and disenchanted? Will the people support my vision?” Solomon confronted such a situation when, as a young man, he ascended the throne of Israel after his father David. With much trepidation, he went to Gibeon to offer sacrifices to the Lord (1 Kings 3:4).

What do you think the young king would ask for when God appeared to him and offered him a blank check? Most probably, wealth, long life, or the death of his enemies. But that’s where Solomon impressed God. He had set his eyes on good governance, and his heart to please God. Israel was a large and great nation to govern for a youth like him with no experience (7). His heart overruled his emotions, so he asked for a discerning heart to govern and ability to distinguish right from wrong (9).

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus made a defining statement on worry and anxiety. “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matt. 6:33). It sounds like Jesus was illustrating His point with Solomon’s choice at Hebron. Given an opportunity to ask for anything from God, he asked for wisdom and discernment for right choices. God gave him what he asked for and much more – “both riches and honor – so that in your lifetime you will have no equal among kings” (13). Isn’t that great!

Maybe you’ve lost your loved ones like Naomi and wondering about tomorrow. Take heart, for God has a Ruth and Boaz to refresh and delight your heart in Christ Jesus. Maybe you’ve inherited a position that challenges your ability and competence. Look to Joshua and receive inspiration (Jos. 1:6, 7, 18). Yours may be an unchartered business venture or academic exercise.  Don’t waiver, for the One who gives knowledge and prudence is your Lord. His name is Jesus, the Anointed King. Commit whatever you do to Him and He will establish your plans (Prov. 16:3). Or is it a ministry vision that overwhelms your consideration? The apostles had no clue how to fulfill the Great Commission (Matt. 28:19-20) until the Holy Spirit baptized them with power (Acts 2:1-4, 42-47).

The Holy Spirit is your enabler. Set your heart fully on Him, instead of worldly consideration, and He will establish you beyond your imagination (2 Chron. 16:9; Eph. 3:20). To Him be glory forever! Amen!

After dad, God!