DailyBible

1 Kings 3:9 Β· KJV

"Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad: for who is able to judge this thy so great a people?"

King James Version

What does 1 Kings 3:9 mean? β†’

Passage Context

7And now, O LORD my God, thou hast made thy servant king instead of David my father: and I am but a little child: I know not how to go out or come in.
8And thy servant is in the midst of thy people which thou hast chosen, a great people, that cannot be numbered nor counted for multitude.
9Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad: for who is able to judge this thy so great a people?
10And the speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing.
11And God said unto him, Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies; but hast asked for thyself understanding to discern judgment;

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Reflection Questions

1

How do you seek understanding in difficult situations?

2

What does it mean to you to discern between good and bad?

3

When have you felt overwhelmed by a decision?

Life Application

decision-making

Pray for wisdom when faced with choices, trusting that God will guide you.

service

Look for opportunities to serve others with discernment and compassion.

People in This Verse

SolomonOT

The son of David and Bathsheba, Solomon is known for his wisdom and wealth. He built the First Temple in Jerusalem and ruled during a time of peace.

First appearance: 2 Samuel 12:24

Connection to Jesus

character of jesus

Jesus is often referred to as the embodiment of wisdom, which Solomon seeks in this prayer.

See also: 1 Corinthians 1:30

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