1 Kings 3

In 1 Kings 3, Solomon showed his love for the Lord by walking according to the instructions given by his father David, except that he offered sacrifices and burned incense on high places (1 Kings 3:3). Solomon’s youthful faith can be seen as he graciously follows his father’s teachings but still participated in practices not fully aligned with God’s commands, as high places were often associated with idolatry or improper worship. This resonates with those raised in faith traditionally, like Christianity, who may follow religious practices due to upbringing rather than a personal relationship with God. Solomon’s actions reflect a faith still developing, rooted in tradition but not yet fully mature; until his offering at Gibeon, the most prominent high place (1 Kings 3:4), where the offer was to the one and only true God hallelujah!!!! Now notice that God did not respond immediately during the sacrifice. Solomon offered a thousand burnt offerings, a significant act of worship. Yet, God did not speak to him during the sacrifice. Instead, that night, God appeared to Solomon in a dream (1 Kings 3:5–15), offering to grant him any request.

God speaks on His own terms and timing, not ONLY when we expect or demand, or even during a powerful worship section. Yes, He speaks in all these things, and we must Honor Him as God who speaks, yet understand He does in His own way and time- not just in our own way and time- hence we must adjust ourselves into his will, timing and purpose. We must learn to wait upon the Lord and let HIM speak and not be in a rush to say the Lord says when He has not. We must be humble to allow Him to speak to us in a language that we will understand. We can see in the early days of Solomons life God spoke to him through dreams and that changed his life forever.

In humility and patience for God, seek those who will worship Him in spirit and in truth, not just as a religious act or emotions where we allow our thoughts or even imagination speak, but to wait for His voice in His way. Solomon’s encounter with God in the dream transformed him when he awoke, he carried a part of God’s wisdom, which became evident in his life brothers and sisters. Truly, hearing God leaves a lasting impact, as His words carry His presence and authority, transforming the hearer. Genuine encounters with God whether through dreams, prophecy, visions, or His Word impart a portion of His nature, enabling us to live differently.

Solomon’s life was never the same after hearing God, and his wisdom became a testimony to God’s presence within him. God spoke to Solomon in His own way (a dream) and time (at night), not during the act of sacrifice, teaching us to wait humbly upon the Lord in spirit and truth. Solomon’s humble request for wisdom to govern God’s people (1 Kings 3:9) pleased God, who granted him wisdom, along with riches and honour (1 Kings 3:10–13). Solomon’s wisdom in resolving a dispute between two women over a child (1 Kings 3:16–28) is displayed. His discerning judgment caused all Israel to hold him in awe, recognizing the divine wisdom within him (1 Kings 3:28).

questions

Are you following God based on upbringing or tradition, or have you sought a personal relationship with Him, as Solomon did through Worship and then encountered God?

How do you respond when God doesn’t speak in the moment or way you expect?

Are you patient to wait for His timing and method? Have you experienced a moment when God’s voice through His Word, a dream, or another means transformed your perspective or actions? How did it change you? Are you seeking to hear God’s true voice, or are you tempted to rely on emotions or assumptions about what God is saying?