“Give your servant therefore an understanding mind to govern your people, able to discern good and evil; for who can govern this your great people”
(1 Kings 3:9)

Take a Moment to Ponder

I believe that each of us, at one time or another has been given some kind of responsibility or has been in a position of leadership. We have been called to make decisions, and we shy away from the responsibility because we do not know what we are to do. Leadership can be very frightening if we attempt to go it alone without assistance or advice from anyone. Leadership can be lonely if we think that we have all the answers. Sometimes we fail at leadership because we refuse to listen to others.

Let us ponder a young King Solomon, as he was thrust into this position of leadership. What was he to do? How was he to lead Israel? Solomon acknowledged that he had no idea what to do. God however, was there and offered Solomon a choice to ask for whatever he wanted. New leaders at that time might have asked for the elimination of their enemies or wealth to solidify their position. Solomon instead asked for something strange. He asked, not for himself, but for the people. He wanted to do a good job at leading God’s people, and so he asked God for, “an understanding mind” and the ability to “discern good from evil.”

Solomon was called by God, and so he wanted to be faithful in leading God’s people. He acknowledged his shortcomings and lack of knowledge, knowing full well that it is God who would lead the people through him. Solomon wanted to continue walking the way of righteousness that his father David walked. This could only be done if God gave him the wisdom and understanding so to do. Let us not pretend as if we know everything. Instead, let us confess our inexperience and shortcomings before God, and ask God to lead us in His righteousness.

Practical Action

Be willing to acknowledge that you do not know, instead of pretending that you know which could lead to disaster. Be willing to accept advice and instruction from others.

A Moment In Prayer

“Lead me Lord. Lead me in your Righteousness.” Gracious God, give us understanding minds to know what you want us to do. Help us discern good from evil so that we will continue to walk in your way. Help us remain faithful to your call on us, as we carry out the charge you have laid before us. You have chosen us, be with us as we do your will;  through Jesus Christ we pray. Amen

Contributed by: Very Rev. Richard A. Tucker