“Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad: for who is able to judge this thy so great a people?.”
1Kgs.3.9
Discussion
DISCUSSION:
One major reason for many unanswered prayers is ignorance. Prevailing ignorance is also the reason for gross perversion in the content of many prayers. When Solomon ascended the throne of Israel, he honored God with great sacrifices. That night, the Lord appeared to him in a vision and asked him to make any request. We know the story. Solomon asked for an understanding heart, that is a heart that can discern right from wrong in order to accurately govern God's people. Another way to put it is; wisdom. Thus, Solomon made his request with respect to God's will for His people. This is a major lesson for us. There are people who never consider God's will in any request they make from God. When your prayers are always all about you you you!, you'll struggle with much dissatisfaction in prayers. When your prayer requests are centered only on what you will gain in life, you deny yourself of the fulfillment that comes from participating in God's divine agenda. Solomon made it about God's people, and God's answer came speedily. Notice another thing about Solomon's request; he didn't ask for wisdom because he was foolish or lacked wisdom. In fact, Solomon was already known to be a wise man even before he became king. 1Kgs.2:9; "Now therefore hold him not guiltless: for thou art a wise man, and knowest what thou oughtest to do unto him...". In David's last words to Solomon, he referred to him repeatedly as a wise man. So, Solomon was already manifesting signs of wisdom, and when he became king, he asked for understanding (wisdom) for this new assignment. Thus, Solomon made his request in the direction of God's already established workings in him. No wonder God was quick to grant his request, because it was according to God's workings in him. Too many times as ministers, we covet the things that aren't according to God's already established workings in our lives. Observe what the Holy Spirit is already emphasizing in your life, then make requests in that direction. You will see quick answers. Too many times we get distracted by what others are doing; or get attracted to what others have. This is why there's much strife, envy and competition amongst brethren. If we would walk with God according to His workings in us, we would have peace and be of more benefit to each other. I hope this helps you. Shalom Uvracha!