The Prayer for Wisdom
Minister: | Rev. Ronald Van Overloop |
Date: | 1/1/2017 AM |
Text: | II Chronicles 1:7-12 |
Psalters: | 275, 40, 325, 304 |
Installation of Elders and Deacons |
- The choices.
- Solomon’s coronation was done quickly because Adonijah plotted to be crowned king (I Kings 1:5-7,32-40).
- Solomon’s wise dealings with these early crises emphasized to him his need for God’s constant blessing.
- God responds to Solomon’s worship by asking Solomon what he wanted God to be given (7).
- Solomon’s choice.
- Solomon asks God to give him “wisdom and knowledge” (10); an “understanding heart” in I Kings 3:9.
- Solomon wants wisdom and knowledge so he can judge, i.e., govern God’s people (10).
- To govern is rule, deciding controversy and executing judgments, rewarding and punishing.
- It is to be able to distinguish not only good and evil, but the better and the best over against just getting something done.
- The reasons behind Solomon’s request are three.
- First, God made him king.
- Second, Solomon is conscious of his youth and inexperience (I Kings 3:7b).
- Third, the people he was to rule were great.
- For what do ecclesiastical office-bearers ask when God puts them into office?
- God heard and answered Solomon.
- God noted what Solomon did not ask for: riches, wealthy, honor, victory in battle, long life (11a).
- God told Solomon that He would give to him wisdom and knowledge.
- Office-bearers, never stop asking for wisdom.