I Kings 1-3

“So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong” (3:9). Solomon inherited the throne of David and immediately had to deal with threats to his power (ch 1-2) from his own brother as well as from David’s army commander Joab. He recognized that he was in over his head (3:7) and humbly asked the Lord for “a discerning heart” (3:9). God was pleased that Solomon was taking seriously his responsibility to lead Israel, and he abundantly granted the request.

“For who is able to govern this great people of yours?” (3:9). When we ask for wisdom, admitting our own limitations, God promises to pour it out generously (James 1:5).