What do we learn from Solomon’s request to God?

All through the Bible, we often see people desiring something and God granting them that desire. Solomon, we know, received more than he desired. How did this happen?

Was there something unique in what he desired? Was there something unique in what he did not desire? Both these originate from the heart. While we read and understand the answers, we need to remind ourselves that both the items which he desired and the items he did not desire were born from the state of his heart, which was noble.

Solomon did not desire riches and possessions for himself.
Solomon did not seek from God for honour and glory for himself.
Solomon did not desire to live a long life for himself.
Solomon did not desire to kill his enemies. He did not want to end the lives of his enemies.
He desired wisdom and knowledge to manage and rule God’s people. He wanted to do a good job with the God-given responsibilities he had as a king. Thus, his intention was focused on God’s expectations and intentions for Solomon’s life.

7 That night God appeared to Solomon and said to him, Ask what I shall give you.
8 And Solomon said to God, You have shown great mercy and loving-kindness to David my father and have made me king in his place.
9 Now, O Lord God, let Your promise to David my father be fulfilled, for you have made me king over a people like the dust of the earth in multitude.
10 Give me now wisdom and knowledge to go out and come in before this people, for who can rule this Your people who are so great?
11 God replied to Solomon, Because this was in your heart and you have not asked for riches, possessions, honor, and glory, or the life of your foes, or even for long life, but have asked wisdom and knowledge for yourself, that you may rule and judge My people over whom I have made you king,
12 Wisdom and knowledge are granted you. And I will give you riches, possessions, honor, and glory, such as none of the kings had before you, and none after you shall have their equal. (Ref 2 Chronicles 1:7-12 AMPC version)

Hence, King Solomon received what he asked for. Additionally, he received far above and beyond what he asked for.
Solomon received riches and possessions, although he did not ask for them.
Solomon received honour and glory, although he did not ask for it.

Seek from God what will help you do a good job of what role God has already given you now. Performing well now is the stepping stone for the next success. Seek what you need for the present. Ask God in faith. The God of King Solomon is your God.

Desire rightly to fulfil God’s plan and purpose for your life now.
Know that in God’s kingdom there is no lack of giving to those who have the right attitude, the right state of heart.