1 Kings 3:7

And now, O LORD my God, You have made Your servant king in my father David's place. But I am only a little child, not knowing how to go out or come in.

Study Bible

Now, O LORD my God
This phrase begins with an acknowledgment of the present moment and a direct address to God, emphasizing a personal relationship. The Hebrew word for "LORD" is "Yahweh," the covenant name of God, which signifies His eternal presence and faithfulness. "My God" indicates Solomon's personal devotion and recognition of God's sovereignty over his life. This reflects a deep, personal faith and reliance on God, which is foundational for any leader seeking wisdom.

You have made Your servant king
Here, Solomon acknowledges that his kingship is not by his own doing but by divine appointment. The term "servant" (Hebrew: "ebed") is significant, as it denotes humility and submission to God's will. Solomon sees his role as one of service to God and His people, rather than a position of power for personal gain. This perspective is crucial for understanding biblical leadership, which is characterized by servanthood and obedience to God's commands.

in place of my father David
This phrase situates Solomon's reign within the Davidic covenant, a promise God made to David that his lineage would endure forever (2 Samuel 7:12-16). Solomon's kingship is a continuation of God's faithfulness to David, highlighting the importance of legacy and divine promise in the biblical narrative. Historically, David is revered as a man after God's own heart, and Solomon's succession underscores the continuity of God's plan for Israel.

But I am only a little child
Solomon's self-description as "a little child" (Hebrew: "na'ar") is a metaphor for his perceived inadequacy and inexperience. Although Solomon was likely in his early twenties, this expression conveys humility and a recognition of his need for divine wisdom. It reflects a biblical principle that true wisdom begins with acknowledging one's limitations and dependence on God.

not knowing how to go out or come in
This phrase is an idiom in ancient Near Eastern culture, referring to the ability to lead and govern effectively. It encompasses the skills needed for both military leadership and civil administration. Solomon's admission of not knowing how to "go out or come in" underscores his awareness of the complexities of leadership and his need for God's guidance. This humility is a key theme in Scripture, where reliance on God is portrayed as the foundation for true wisdom and effective leadership.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The son of King David and Bathsheba, Solomon is the newly anointed king of Israel. Known for his wisdom, Solomon begins his reign with humility, acknowledging his need for divine guidance.

2. David
Solomon's father and the former king of Israel, David is a central figure in Israel's history, known for his heart for God and his leadership.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who has established Solomon as king. Solomon addresses Him directly, seeking wisdom and guidance.

4. Israel
The nation over which Solomon reigns. Israel is God's chosen people, and their leadership is crucial for their spiritual and national prosperity.

5. Gibeon
The place where Solomon offers sacrifices and where God appears to him in a dream, asking what he desires.

Teaching Points

Humility Before God
Solomon's admission of being "only a little child" highlights the importance of approaching God with humility, recognizing our limitations and dependence on Him.

Seeking Divine Wisdom
Solomon's request for wisdom rather than wealth or power sets an example for prioritizing spiritual discernment over worldly gains.

Acknowledging God's Sovereignty
By recognizing that God has made him king, Solomon acknowledges God's ultimate authority and control over his life and leadership.

The Importance of Prayer
Solomon's dialogue with God underscores the necessity of prayer in seeking guidance and making decisions.

Leadership and Responsibility
Solomon's awareness of his role and the weight of leadership serves as a reminder of the responsibility that comes with positions of authority.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Solomon's humility in 1 Kings 3:7 serve as a model for our own approach to God in prayer and decision-making?

2. In what ways can we seek God's wisdom in our daily lives, and how does James 1:5 encourage us in this pursuit?

3. How does Solomon's acknowledgment of his limitations relate to Jesus' teaching in Matthew 18:3-4 about becoming like little children?

4. What can we learn from Solomon's example about the importance of prioritizing spiritual wisdom over material wealth or power?

5. How does recognizing God's sovereignty, as Solomon did, impact our understanding of leadership and responsibility in our own lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

James 1:5
This verse encourages believers to ask God for wisdom, who gives generously to all without finding fault. Solomon's request for wisdom is a direct application of this principle.

Proverbs 3:5-6
These verses emphasize trusting in the Lord and not leaning on one's own understanding, which aligns with Solomon's acknowledgment of his need for divine guidance.

Matthew 18:3-4
Jesus speaks about becoming like little children to enter the kingdom of heaven, which parallels Solomon's humility in recognizing his limitations.