Our look at encounters with God continues with the LORD’s appearance to Solomon.

It happened as he was beginning his reign as king, and the LORD said to Solomon,

“Ask for whatever you want me to give you.”

How would you respond to an invitation like that? When we talk of living the American dream, we think of opportunities we have to live productive lives, we think of freedom, and we think of the many blessings that God has granted this nation over the years. However, opportunities can be squandered and freedom can turn to bondage if we lose focus on God and become addicted to our toys, tools, and other material blessings. Solomon could have asked for wealth. He could have asked for a long life, or the destruction of his enemies. Instead, Solomon asked the LORD for wisdom.

He wanted to be able, as a leader, to govern people with a discerning heart, to be able to distinguish between right and wrong. Solomon recognized his own personal limitations, and the huge task before him to lead Israel as a nation. He felt inadequate for the task, and God honored his request. Not only did God bless Solomon with wisdom, but He also gave him riches and honor.

Wisdom is available to us today as well. We can grow in wisdom by asking God for wisdom with a believing heart, (James 1:5) and applying the truths of Scripture into our lives. (Matthew 7:24). Having a personal relationship with Jesus as Savior and Lord is foundational to a life of wisdom. (I Corinthians 1:30)