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REFLECTION

The theme for this reflection is “ASKING FOR THE GIFT OF WISDOM. To understand this theme, we must look at the key words. “Asking” means humbly requesting help from someone greater than ourselves. A “gift” is something given freely out of love, not something we earn through our own efforts. “Wisdom” is the ability to see life through God’s eyes, make good moral choices, and apply knowledge in daily living. The central lesson of this passage is that when we place God’s purpose and the needs of others above our selfish desires, God honours our humble prayers and provides far more than we imagine.

The background of this passage takes place at the beginning of King Solomon’s reign. Solomon had just succeeded his father, King David, as the leader of Israel. Feeling the heavy weight of leading a great nation, he went to Gibeon to worship and offer sacrifices to the Lord. That night, God appeared to him in a dream with an extraordinary invitation: “Ask for whatever you want me to give you” (2 Chronicles 1:7).

Solomon’s response reveals the heart of true leadership and spiritual maturity. Instead of asking for selfish advantages, Solomon reflected on God’s kindness to his father David and acknowledged his own limitations. He prayed, “Give me wisdom and knowledge, that I may lead this people, for who is able to govern this great people of yours?” (2 Chronicles 1:10). The key lesson here is that wisdom begins with humility. Solomon recognised that the people belonged to God, not him, and that he could not lead them by his strength alone.

In our daily lives, we face decisions regarding parenting, workplace responsibilities, and relationships. Often, human instinct tells us to chase quick wealth, popularity, or personal victory over rivals. Yet, James reminds us of God’s generosity when we seek better direction: “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” (James 1:5). When a parent prays for patience and discernment rather than simply seeking an easy way out of family conflict, they are choosing the path of Solomon.

God was deeply pleased with Solomon’s request because his heart was aligned with God’s priorities. God answered him, “Since this is your heart’s desire and you have not asked for wealth, possessions or honour, nor for the death of your enemies, and since you have not asked for a long life but for wisdom and knowledge to govern my people over whom I have made you king, therefore wisdom and knowledge will be given you. And I will also give you wealth, possessions and honour, such as no king who was before you ever had and none after you will have” (2 Chronicles 1:11-12). When we seek God’s righteousness and wisdom first, He faithfully takes care of all our other needs, echoing Jesus’ teaching: “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:33).

In summary, true wisdom is a divine gift received through humble prayer. Solomon showed us that desiring to serve others and honour God is far more valuable than seeking riches, long life, or revenge. When our motives are pure, God grants us the discernment we need and adds His blessings according to His will. Let us turn away from self-centred ambition and commit to seeking God’s guidance daily in all our decisions, trusting that He will equip us for every good work.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, You are the source of all true wisdom, knowledge, and understanding. We confess that we often rely on our own limited strength and chase after things that do not bring lasting peace. Forgive us for the times we have allowed pride and selfish desires to guide our choices.

Lord, just as You met Solomon, grant us a humble and listening heart. Give us the gift of wisdom so that we may honour You in our homes, workplaces, and communities. Help us to seek Your kingdom first, trusting that You will supply all our needs according to Your riches in glory. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.