What do we want? If given an opportunity to make a wish, what would it be? Money? Good health? Peace on earth?
When given such an opportunity to ask of God (1 Kings 3:5), Solomon gave thought to the position in which he had been placed in succeeding his father David as king (1 Kings 3:6-8) and asked. . .
“(9)Give your servant therefore an understanding mind to govern your people, that I may discern between good and evil, for who is able to govern this your great people?” (1 Kings 3:9 ESV)
Because this is what Solomon asked rather than long life, riches, or the life of his enemies (1 Kings 3:11), he was granted wisdom above any before him or who would come after him (1 Kings 3:12) as well as riches and honor (1 Kings 3:13), and if he continued walking in the ways of God he would be given long life as well. (1 Kings 3:14) However, in his later life he was not so wise and was drawn away from God. (1 Kings 11:1-8) His heart did not remain wholly true to the Lord as the heart of his father David had been. (1 Kings 11:4)
What was the difference with David? Consider his request where we read. . .
“(4) One thing have I asked of the Lord, that will I seek after: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to inquire in his temple.” (Psalm 27:4 ESV)
David’s desire was to remain abiding in the presence of God. His greatest desire was to remain close to Him and receiving His guidance! The worst thing it seems David could imagine was being cast away from the presence of the Lord. (Psalm 51:11) David was not sinless, but he had a heart which continued drawing him near to God. This is why we see him ending his life still faithful to God! We may then wonder who was truly wiser!
May we also seek above all else God’s kingdom and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33) — to remain in an abiding relationship with Him — and trust Him for whatever other blessings He brings into our life. Remaining walking with Him ultimately leads to entering into His eternal presence at the end of this life’s journey.
As Jesus encouraged. . .
“(13) But the one who endures to the end will be saved.” (Matthew 24:13 ESV)
May our heart continually be drawn toward God as we press on through life’s journey leading to an eternity with Him!
Have a great day WALKING ON WITH GOD!
Carl
