I Kings 3

“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?” (v9). Solomon began well; he “loved the Lord” (v3) and desired to rule wisely.  He recognized his own shortcomings – “I am but a little child” – and asked the Lord for “an understanding mind”.  More than knowledge or power, Solomon wanted to discern “between good and evil,” as he did in the argument about the baby (v27).

“Ask what I shall give you” (v5).  Just as Solomon was equipped for his task, God promises to give us wisdom so that we can reflect His heart as we fulfill our own callings (James 1:5).