1 Kings 3

Solomon's reign was more glorious than David's according to God's plan and provision. While the opening accounts of His time as king plainly show us his problems, these would not be the focus of the Lord's recorded communications with him until much later in his reign.

Each of the great kings presented in the history of God's people prepared us for the perfect King, the Lord Jesus Christ. Solomon's reign pointed forward to One who would be far greater than any other son of David. He would reign with even more wisdom and glory than the great Solomon.

We are told that Solomon “loved the Lord,” despite his failings. When God appeared to him in a dream, the young king asked for wisdom from on high that he might know how to rule well over God's people. Solomon knew that he needed an understanding mind, not merely to be able to know facts, but to go beyond that in distinguishing good from evil in all his judgments.

This request was pleasing to the Lord. God gave him not only the wisdom that he requested but also the great glory of riches, honor, and long life. God also used this occasion to call his servant to walk in His ways.

One episode presented to us at the end of this chapter provided a vivid example of the way that God's gift of wisdom was used in governing even the lowliest of his people. Solomon was able to ask the right question that would reveal the truth regarding a dispute between two prostitutes. One was shown to be a bitter liar and the other, the real mother, had her son restored to her.

The people heard this account, and they were able to discern the gifts that God had granted to Solomon. We are told that they stood in awe of the king.

Solomon was not the Messiah. He did love the Lord. Nonetheless, a thousand burnt offerings brought by Solomon could not compare with the offering that Jesus brought to the Father.

Solomon had wisdom and glory, and the people knew it. There was a time when the wisdom and glory of Jesus could only be seen by faith. A king dying on a cross is easy to mock and defy. Even a man who rises from the dead can be ignored by those who refuse to walk in His ways.

As the gospel of Christ has been preached throughout the centuries, millions upon millions who have heard the Word of the King have come to see His wisdom. When He comes again in all His glory, no one will be able to ignore the greatness of our King. The whole earth will bow before Him.