1 Kings 3: Praying with God's Values
"HELLO, MARY? I need a listening ear. Do you have time?" Haltingly, I poured out my disappointment and sorrow about a problem that had been plaguing me for days. Mary made sympathetic noises, offered a few corrective comments and promised to pray. The situation was unchanged; yet, as the day progressed, I felt the cloud of sadness lift. I knew Mary was praying. And God, in his generosity, was granting the requests of her prayer.
Why had I chosen Mary? Because she was approachable? Partly. But more because I knew her spiritual walk. It was carefully metered by God's laws. And because she was comfortable with prayer, her prayers were specific and to the point. Like her spiritual wa lk, her prayers seemed closely matched to God's values.
Warming Up to God
In what area of your life would you like to have someone's prayers?Read 1 Kings 3. »
Discovering the Word
- What do Solomon's actions in the early years of his reign (vv. 1-4) say about his character?
- Solomon answered God's question with a prayer (vv. 5-9). What does Solomon's prayer suggest about his attitude toward himself, his job and his God?
- What did God promise Solomon (vv. 10-14)?
- How would you describe a discerning heart?
- In verses 16-28 we see Solomon's wisdom put to the test. Do you agree that Solomon's method of judgment was wise? Why or why not?
Applying the Word
- Think of one of your current responsibilities that seems a bit too big for you. What would you like to ask of God in that area?
- How can you begin to bring your prayers more into line with God's values?
Responding in Prayer
Think of one person who particularly needs a discerning heart right now. Pray one or two sentences asking God's help for that person.
For Further Study
Wisdom by Bill Hybels