1 Kings 3:1-15 “Releasing God’s Generosity”
Solomon’s marriage alliance with Pharaoh is an indication of the strength of Solomon’s rule. Pharaoh’s never gave daughters to foreign nations except here. Also, we see the favor of God on Solomon’s life: “Now Solomon loved the LORD, walking in the statutes of his father David, except he sacrificed and burned incense on the high places.” (3) In the context of a costly expression of worship God visited him in a dream and said, “…’Ask what you wish Me to give you.’” (5b). Before asking anything he acknowledged the lovingkindness of God and his own inabilities: “…yet I am but a little child; I do not know how to go out or come in.” (7b, c). Jesus told us to become like children to enter His kingdom. He is not primarily pointing to childlike faith, but to the the childlike dependence on God [as Father] essential to life! God was so pleased with Solomon’s request He not only gave him his request, but promised to give him what he did not ask for also. When hearts are focused on God in worship and humility [dependence], He releases generosity on us.
