“Solomon loved the Lord, walking in the statutes of David his father, only he sacrificed and made offerings at the high places. And the king went to Gibeon to sacrifice there, for that was the great high place. Solomon used to offer a thousand burnt offerings on that altar. At Gibeon the Lord appeared to Solomon in a dream by night, and God said, ‘Ask what I shall give you…’
“‘O Lord my God, you have made your servant king in place of David my father, although I am but a little child. I do not know how to go out or come in. And your servant is in the midst of your people whom you have chosen, a great people, too many to be numbered or counted for multitude. Give your servant therefore an understanding mind to govern your people, that I may discern between good and evil, for who is able to govern this your great people?’
“It pleased the Lord that Solomon had asked this. And God said to him, ‘Because you have asked this, and have not asked for yourself long life or riches or the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself understanding to discern what is right, behold, I now do according to your word. I give you a wise and discerning mind, so that none like you has been before you and none like you shall arise after you. I give you also what you have not asked, both riches and honor, so that no other king shall compare with you, all your days. And if you will walk in my ways, keeping my statutes and my commandments, as your father David walked, then I will lengthen your days.'” 1 Kings 3:3-5,7-14
Lifting the veil on the inner sanctum of Gibeon’s high place, the Lord invites our witness of a most intimate exchange. Solomon encounters God by way of sacrifice, bringing his honesty and limited faith, and God promises far more than the young king could begin to imagine. Solomon had enough understanding to know what he did not know and have, and God pledged to give wisdom beyond his years and more.
The Lord delights to commune with His children. He shapes and hears what we ask, always actively guiding and listening when we yield to Him in earnest prayer. He knows exactly where we are in the scope of life here below. His plans for us are vast and good, and He understands and meets every need we own to accomplish them. (Jeremiah 29:11; Philippians 4:19)
Are we aware of what we have, both liability and asset, and do we bring these to Jesus? How regularly, how honestly, do we assess our storehouse? It is easy in the rush and press of each day to hurry into activity without taking time at the high place and offering ourselves- our hours and willingness and open hands- to the Lord. But when we do, there is much treasure to find.
What specific needs can we offer our King today? Where are we lacking insight, understanding, patience, a clear way forward? Our bountiful God gives beyond and in between what we ask, according to His glorious riches and infinite wisdom. (Ephesians 3:20)
Lord, keep me honest and bold in prayer, and please work into and unto and out of me according to Your great wisdom and glory.
As the rain and snow 