It is so encouraging to read the beginning of Solomon’s life and it helps take away the sting of some of his failures later on. In fact, it is even hard to imagine how he would have failed but that lasts only for a moment for I too have strayed even when I knew better.
It is a prayer, none-the-less, that is an example that helps me in my walk with Jesus today.
First of all, Solomon’s succession to the throne was already messy. He knew that he had help from his father and others and now he knew he needed God’s help more than ever.
It is probably safe to say that imperfect people need to pray – my imperfection is why I pray – it should never be the reason not to pray. Simple requests matter.
I take my weaknesses and my needs and I bring them to God in prayer. It does not matter what kind of leadership tasks I am responsible for, what matters is that I accompany each of them in prayer. If you are like me, how many people do we know that has mastered wisdom? Who does not need more or who has no need to offer this kind of prayer? I am encouraged to ask for this one spiritual gift – wisdom.
It was prayed in faith, it was prayed in his sleep, but it was as real as any of us could imagine.
When I pray, do I pray for the simple things or do I pray for a special gift? While I am fully aware that there is nothing wrong when I pray for my daily needs and concerns, I cannot forget that God wants to give me more.
What spiritual gifts should I be praying for today? It seems that wisdom would be the theme for today.
“Elisha saved a boy’s life and saved a city from a siege – both through prayer.” – Timothy Keller
The Practice of Prayer 