Listen

The Lord appeared to Solomon at Gibeon in a dream at night. God said, “Ask whatever you wish, and I’ll give it to you.”

Solomon responded, “You showed so much kindness to your servant my father David when he walked before you in truth, righteousness, and with a heart true to you. You’ve kept this great loyalty and kindness for him and have now given him a son to sit on his throne. And now, Lord my God, you have made me, your servant, king in my father David’s place. But I’m young and inexperienced. I know next to nothing. But I’m here, your servant, in the middle of the people you have chosen, a large population that can’t be numbered or counted due to its vast size. Please give your servant a discerning mind in order to govern your people and to distinguish good from evil, because no one is able to govern this important people of yours without your help.”

1 Kings 3:5-9

Think

Solomon is in a situation that most would envy. What will he wish for? Before he makes his request, Solomon recalls the relationship his father, David, had with God. This relationship developed through honesty, righteousness, and most of all through David’s heart that was attuned to God’s will. Now Solomon is king, and he humbly acknowledges that he has some perceived limitations: a) youth, b) inexperience, and c) limited knowledge. Solomon, however, does affirm his one advantage to God: “I’m here,” and when he does make his request, it is for a “discerning mind.”

Solomon recognizes that in order to be an effective leader, he needs to be reasonable and compassionate. Additionally, he knows he cannot accomplish anything without help from God. Solomon must listen with his heart and mind.

In order to be open to God’s direction, we too have to claim, “I’m here, and I’m ready to receive instruction from you, Lord.” Through a dedicated relationship with God, we will hear God’s voice.

Wisdom comes not so much from speaking but from listening.

Gayle Taylor

Question to Ponder:

How can you be a better listener of God’s words?

Pray

Lord, give me a heart that is true to you.

Remind me that our relationship only grows stronger when I listen more and speak less.

Amen.

Go

To be wise is to be still… and to listen.

Listen for direction in God’s voice.