Scripture: 1Kings 2:10-12, 3:3-14
Imagine if you had a dream and in that dream God said to you that you could have anything you wanted. That is where we find Solomon in this passage. His father King David has died, and he has been left with the kingdom. He loves God, probably because he saw the great joy his father David expressed when he engaged in worship. Seriously can you imagine growing up and hearing the Psalms being sung for the first time by your father?
I like to use my imagination when I engage scripture in prayer. Some might think this is odd of even unrightious, but I enjoy it and feel it brings the words to life in a way that applicational study cannot. As I read this passage I imagine the loss of a very close loved one, I imagine the responsibility of a new leader, I even imagine the smells of the burnt offerings. What do I see when I do this, I see a strong young man scared stiff that he will not be able to fill the shoes of his father.
By imagining myself in the story I can see what Solomon might have seen, felt, and desired. I have never been a king, and I am guessing most of you have not either (and if you are let me know because that would be awsome!), but I have been asked to lead. While I was in college we had an amazing praise team for our Christian group, this band was working on a recording contract at the time and I basically had the opportunity to attend a free concert every week. Eventually they signed with a label and moved away leaving our group without a praise band, so our group asked me to play. I do not play guitar very well but I tried. The idea of following a professional act just scared me. Rightfully so too. I was terrible and was graciously asked not to play again. (Which I was thankful for). But imagine that times a million. A king is more than a praise leader.
So God asks Solomon what would you like, you’re the king and I want to bless you! (Paraphrase). Solomon asks for wisdom. I understand why too. He followed an amazing king, and he knew how his half brother tried to hyjack the kingdom as well. The people loved David, and David love them and God. How do you follow that? Imagine.
If God asked you that question what would you say?
Discussion
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