In 1 Kings 3 Solomon, the newly annointed King of Israel, is given a blank check from God. "Ask what I shall give you" is the charge given by God to Solomon. With such an unbelievable offer, from one who had infinite resources to deliver, what would Solomon request. Before he answers he reflects. He remembers the faithfulness of God to his father. He remembers that David's uprightness in heart before God. He acknowledges that he sat that day as King of Israel becaue of God's promises to his father. He realizes that this task of ruling a great multitude of people is beyond his abilities and answers with profound humilty "Give your servant therefore an understanding mind to govern your people, that I may discern between good and evil, for who is able to govern this your great people?" Solomon's plea for wisdom to serve and govern God's people pleased God. Solomon is granted his request and even more. The Lord knew that it would be easy for a mere man to ask for long life, riches, the life of enemies, etc. - but since Solomon asked for none of these, he grants them anyway. What would you ask for if the Lord of the Universe literally gave you a blank check? What would I ask for? Jesus gives us counsel here as well: But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.Matt 6:33 What is this kingdom we should first seek? Love, Joy, Peace in the Holy Spirit - to Love God first and foremost and then to love our neighbors as ourselves. To care for the poor and the oppressed and preach the liberating gospel to those who walk in darkness...to acknowledge the rule and reign of the Word of God in our lives...such things are worth more than gold, more than anything conceived in the hearts of men - Seek these first!!!! The rest is gravy, yet gravy by itself makes for a very poor meal. Yours for loving the true banquet of God, bone dry if he so calls...and if he chooses to add some gravy, well, that will be gravy. ...

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