1 Kings 3:5 – “In Gibeon, Yahweh appeared to Solomon in a dream at night; and God said, “Ask what I should give to you.”

As I read, prayed, and pondered the Word of God (written & spoken) a truth caught my thinking and is now capturing my heart.

Solomon’s response to God’s question or statement in 1 Kings 3 is revelatory and instructional. God said, “Ask that which I should give you.”  Imagine that open door from God.  You tell Me (God) what you want.  What would you ask for?   So often, we get the cart before the horse.  We seek money before ministry and plan what we will do when.  We seek position before the development of character.   We seek knowledge before pursuing the purpose. 

Solomon made a simple but revealing request.   It revealed the heart of a servant.   (v.9)– “Give me an understanding heart to judge, discernment to know the difference between good and evil.”   He saw his responsibility as immense, and his purpose was to serve. In serving, he would fulfill the purpose for his life. God gave him what he asked for and what he did not ask for.  God seldom entrusts riches, honor, and position before He develops the heart.   We force our way in, to our own ruin.

The example of Jesus at the Last Supper reveals the same.  Service is first.   But not just outward acts. It is from the heart.   It defines the person and purpose. (John 13).

God’s plan is for us to walk in fullness in every way.   Power, protection, provision, peace, and purpose are our destiny.   But those blessings will destroy us Unless we get the heart right first.  It is vital that we Seek First Kingdom and His Righteousness, Then – All These Things Come to Us!

The first thing is the heart!   The Lord has been impressing upon me the importance of knowing why we want what we want.    Hidden motives are deceptive and usually destructive!

Your promise is the Kingdom and abundant life.  First, the heart, then the rest.  First, the heart.