All I want for Christmas is Wisdom | Wk.1 | Kings of Summer
When King Solomon ascended to the throne, he faced the daunting task of leading a nation chosen by God. He was young and inexperienced, but he had the opportunity to ask God for anything.
Can you imagine it?
Admit it. You have - it just wasn’t God you imagined talking too.
It was a genie.
This only happens in day dreams, right?
Apparently not.
Solomon’s request for wisdom rather than wealth, power, or long life or ‘more wishes’ reveals what matters most in leadership and life: aligning our heart with God’s purpose and promise.
You want to get somewhere? You just might get ‘there’ if ‘there echoes God’s heart.
Solomon’s request for wisdom takes place early in his time as king. The passage begins with Solomon traveling to Gibeon to offer sacrifices. At this time, the temple in Jerusalem had not yet been built, so Gibeon served as an important place for worship. Solomon’s offering of a thousand burnt offerings makes clear his devotion to God and his recognition of the epic scale of his responsibilities (and the awareness associated.)
'Now the king went to Gibeon to sacrifice there, for that was the great high place: Solomon offered a thousand burnt offerings on that altar. At Gibeon the Lord appeared to Solomon in a dream by night; and God said, “Ask! What shall I give you?” And Solomon said: “You have shown great mercy to Your servant David my father, because he walked before You in truth, in righteousness, and in uprightness of heart with You; You have continued this great kindness for him, and You have given him a son to sit on his throne, as it is this day. Now, O Lord my God, You have made Your servant king instead of my father David, but I am 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 numerous to be numbered or counted. Therefore give to Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people, that I may discern between good and evil. For who is able to judge this great people of Yours?”'
I Kings 3:4-9 https://www.bible.com/bible/114/1KI.3.4-9
That night, God appears to Solomon in a dream, saying, “Ask for whatever you want me to give you” (v5). Imagine the weight of that moment. The Creator of the universe offers Solomon a blank check, an unlimited opportunity to ask for anything. What would you ask for?
Riches, fame, safety, or something else?
Solomon’s answer is both humble and remarkable.
In his response, Solomon acknowledges his limitations. He refers to himself as “only a little child” (v. 7), recognising his inexperience and inadequacy for the role he has been given. Despite being the king, Solomon demonstrates a humility that contrasts sharply with the arrogance often associated with power and youth. This humility is the foundation of Solomon’s request. He know who he is and more importantly WHOSE he is.
Solomon also acknowledges God’s faithfulness to his father, David. He reflects on how God showed “great kindness” to David and allowed his lineage to continue through Solomon. By grounding his prayer in gratitude and humility, Solomon demonstrates an understanding of God’s character and a dependence on His guidance.
Instead of asking for personal gain, Solomon asks for a “discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong” (v. 9). His focus is not on himself but on the task God has given him. Solomon recognises that leadership requires wisdom—not just knowledge or experience, but the ability to apply God’s principles in complex situations.
'The speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing. Then God said to him: “Because you have asked this thing, and have not asked long life for yourself, nor have asked riches for yourself, nor have asked the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself understanding to discern justice, behold, I have done according to your words; see, I have given you a wise and understanding heart, so that there has not been anyone like you before you, nor shall any like you arise after you. And I have also given you what you have not asked: both riches and honor, so that there shall not be anyone like you among the kings all your days. So if you walk in My ways, to keep My statutes and My commandments, as your father David walked, then I will lengthen your days.” Then Solomon awoke; and indeed it had been a dream. And he came to Jerusalem and stood before the ark of the covenant of the Lord , offered up burnt offerings, offered peace offerings, and made a feast for all his servants.'
I Kings 3:10-15 https://www.bible.com/bible/114/1KI.3.10-15
This request pleases God. He not only grants Solomon unparalleled wisdom but also adds blessings Solomon did not ask for: wealth, honour, and the promise of a long life if Solomon remains walking with him as David did.
Why Wisdom?
Solomon’s request teaches us the value of prioritising wisdom over wealth or personal comfort. Wisdom, rooted in a relationship with God, equips us to navigate life’s challenges in a way that honours Him.
It is more than intelligence or cleverness; it is the ability to align our decisions with God’s will and reflect His character in our actions.
It will help you look both intelligent and clever.
But it wont be your doing.
In today’s world, the pursuit of wealth, status, and success often overshadows the pursuit of godly wisdom. We are bombarded with messages that equate happiness with stuff or huge achievement. Yet Solomon’s example reminds us that true fulfillment comes from God’s guidance and living according to His purposes.
Takeaways at the beach
Humility first
Solomon’s acknowledgment of his need for God’s help is a powerful reminder that humility is the foundation of wisdom.
Proverbs 9:10 echoes this truth: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” When we approach God with a humble heart, recognising our dependence on Him, we open ourselves to His guidance.
Are there areas in your life where pride is preventing you from seeking God’s wisdom? Ask Him to cultivate a heart of humility within you.
Wisdom For Others
Solomon’s wisdom was not for his benefit alone but for the good of the people he served. Godly wisdom enables us to make decisions that bless others and advance His kingdom.
People are watching us, learning from us, interacting with us.
As parents, leaders, coworkers, or friends, our choices have ripple effects.
By seeking wisdom, we lead lives that point others to Christ.
Consider the influence you have on those around you. How might seeking God’s wisdom enable you to serve and bless others more effectively?
You Don’t Come 2nd Putting God 1st.
Solomon’s story demonstrates that when we prioritise God’s will over our own desires, He is faithful to provide what we need—and often more.
It doesn’t mean we will always receive material blessings, God is not a get rich quick scheme but it does mean that God’s provision will be sufficient for all He calls us to.
What are your priorities? Are they aligned with God’s purposes, or are they centered on personal gain? Trust that when you put His kingdom first, everything else will fall into place (Matthew 6:33).
Solomon’s request for wisdom is a model for our own prayers. Too often, my prayers focus on immediate needs or the things I want from God, or just from life.
There is nothing wrong with bringing our needs to God, but Solomon’s example encourages us to pray with a broader perspective. Instead of asking only for what we want, we should seek what we need to fulfill God’s purposes in our lives.
Seek the Kingdom first.
When was the last time you prayed for wisdom? Whether you’re facing a major decision this summer or simply navigating the challenges of daily life, God invites you to seek His guidance. James 1:5 offers a beautiful promise: “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.”
Reflection Questions
In what areas of your life do you need godly wisdom?
How can you cultivate humility and dependence on God in your daily decisions, especially while on summer holidays?
Are there priorities in your life that need to be realigned with God’s purposes as we head into the new year?
Prayer
Lord, thank You for the example of Solomon’s humility and wisdom. Teach me to seek Your guidance in every area of my life, prioritising Your will over my desires. Help me to lead and serve others with wisdom that reflects Your character. Guard my heart against distractions and temptations, and keep me firmly rooted in Your truth. Amen.