2 Chronicles 1:7, "In that night did God appear unto Solomon, and said unto him, Ask what I shall give thee."

Solomon went to Gibeon to worship the Lord and during the night after Solomon had offered burnt-offerings upon the altar, God said to him, "Ask what I shall give thee." Here is an open invitation from God, a wish list as it were, to ask God whatever you desire.  Solomon demonstrated wisdom, notice his request, "Give me now wisdom and knowledge, that I may go out and come in before this people: for who can judge this they people, that is so great?" Solomon asked God for that which would benefit others rather than that which would benefit himself. He wanted wisdom and knowledge from God, knowing his judgment needed to reflect the wisdom of the LORD.

Most people would ask for money, for popularity, for power etc.  The things for which we pray are a reflection of who we are and what we desire.  Rather than selfishly asking for riches, for fame, or for power, Solomon asked for wisdom.  How did God respond to Solomon's request?  God said, "Because this was in thine heart, and thou hast not asked riches, wealth, or honour, nor the life of thine enemies, neither yet hast asked long life; but hast asked wisdom and knowledge for thyself, that thou mayest judge my people, over whom I have made thee king: 12 Wisdom and knowledge is granted unto thee; and I will give thee riches, and wealth, and honour, such as none of the kings have had that have been before thee, neither shall there any after thee have the like." (2 Chronicles 1:11-12)

God answered Solomon's request, but also exceeded that for which he had asked.  Because Solomon had requested that which would glorify God and help others, the LORD gave Solomon more than he requested.  Jeremiah 33:3, "Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not."  Ephesians 3:20, "Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us."

Today's lesson is simply, pray to advance the things of God in the lives of others, and watch God advance the lives of others and your life also.  God will perfectly answer our prayers according to His pleasure.

Make sure to ask for that which will glorify God and bless others, you will be glad beyond measure.

Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott

QUESTIONS TO PONDER
1.  If God would grant you but one wish, for what would you ask and why?

2.  Why do you think most people would ask for something to enhance their own life?

3.  Has God ever done more than you thought possible?  How so?