When David died, Israel lost its first great king. Though he was flawed in several ways, he had been a man “after [God’s] own heart” (1 Samuel 13:14). In 1 Kings 2:2-3, David tells Solomon, “I am about to go the way of all the earth. . . . So be strong, act like a man, and observe what the Lord your God requires.”

What will Solomon need in order to rule well? He demon­strates much of it in today’s reading. Solomon has a worshipful heart and a sense of humility. But in order to lead well, he must come to know and trust in God, seeking guidance from the Lord.

The Lord appears to Solomon with an astonishing invitation: “Ask for whatever you want me to give you.” Solomon asks for the gift of wisdom, and he receives it in abundance. It is a kingly request and a kingly gift.

As participants in Christ’s kingdom, we have many callings in which we can exercise some degree of leadership and service to God. In our homes, workplaces, schools, and churches, or wherever God leads us, we need wisdom to live faithfully and fruitfully. In James 1:5 we read, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”