Teaching Notes

Do you know what helps you in a race or practicing for a race? A friend to go with you. Sometimes our races are made easier when we have someone that encourages us along the way. Is there someone you can encourage today? (picture taken by Joselyn L. Williams).

Godly Wisdom
1 King 3:10-14 (The Message)

God, the Master, was delighted with Solomon's response. And God said to him, "Because you have asked for this and haven't grasped after a long life, or riches, or the doom of your enemies, but you have asked for the ability to lead and govern well, I'll give you what you've asked for—I'm giving you a wise and mature heart. There's never been one like you before; and there'll be no one after. As a bonus, I'm giving you both the wealth and glory you didn't ask for—there's not a king anywhere who will come up to your mark. And if you stay on course, keeping your eye on the life-map and the God-signs as your father David did, I'll also give you a long life." - 1 Kings 3:10-14



Notes: Solomon seeks God to help him and God delights at Solomon's request for wisdom. What God does is he grants Solomon what he ask for but so much more!

Question: Why did God grant to Solomon things he didn't even ask for?



Answer: God granted Solomon more than he asked for because he asked first for the right things. He didn't ask God to give him money, power or long life. He didn't ask for things that would have been selfish. He in fact asked God to help him do his work. He asked God to give him what he needed to fulfill his purpose in his life. When we seek God for the right things first, he adds more to us than what we ask for. He does it because he have the right motives for what we ask.



Prayer: God today, give me more understanding of your word and of your ways. Help me to know what is right and good so that I can live your way. When I do, I know you will grant to me what I request. And if it be your will increase me in other areas and help me to always give you the honor for what you do in my life.