“Solomon the son of David established himself in his kingdom, and the Lord his God was with him and made him exceedingly great.
“Solomon.., and all the assembly with him, went to the… bronze altar before the Lord, which was at the tent of meeting, and offered a thousand burnt offerings on it.
“That night God appeared to Solomon, and said, ‘Ask what I shall give you.’ Solomon said to God, ‘You have shown great and steadfast love to David my father, and made me king in his place. O Lord God, let your word… be now fulfilled, for you have made me king over a people as numerous as the dust of the earth. Give me now wisdom and knowledge to go out and come in.., for who can govern this people of yours, which is so great?’ God answered Solomon, ‘Because this was in your heart, and you have not asked for possessions, wealth, honor, or the life of those who hate you, and not even for long life, but for wisdom and knowledge for yourself that you may govern my people.., wisdom and knowledge are granted to you. I will also give you riches, possessions, and honor, such as none of the kings had who were before you, and none after you shall have the like.’ So Solomon came from before the tent of meeting to Jerusalem. And he reigned over Israel.” 2 Chronicles 1:1-3,6-13
Solomon established himself as God’s promised king, following what he knew to be true. Humbled in the Lord’s presence and favor, he offered great sacrifice in dedication and praise. When then visited by God in a night vision, he recounted His steadfast love and faithfulness to His covenant. Solomon then requested wisdom and knowledge to fulfill his duties, acknowledging he could not otherwise govern God’s people. He did not know what he would need to know, but he knew the One who did. The Lord answered abundantly. (2 Chronicles 2:1-12; 3:1-9; 9:1-8)
When conferred a task, it can be our immediate bent to make plans, dig in, charge ahead. We take it on in our ability and gusto. Yet if all work is a gift from God and is to be done as unto Him, it’s imperative we pause to know what’s true before starting the assignment: The Lord is with us. He’s assigned the particular position, given promises He has and will fulfill, and can supply everything needed to follow His call. He stands ready to hear and answer our pleas, delighting to deliver more than we ask or imagine. Embarking without Him, we never know the bounty we could have received. (Genesis 2:7-8,15; Ephesians 2:10; 3:20; Colossians 3:23)
What wisdom, ongoing communion, guidance, and delight do we lack in our work? Where are we flagging in zeal, inspiration, or courage in our efforts? Do we think everything, from initiation to results, is up to us?
When will we acknowledge God’s hand in placing us where we are, and trace His faithful provision thus far? What pledges from His word can we claim now, and looking forward? How will we daily practice seeking His wisdom and knowledge so we can honor Him foremost in carrying out our tasks with excellence?
Father, teach me dependence on You in praise for all You are and have done, and in prayer for what You can and will continue to do, for Your glory.
As the rain and snow 