Solomon’s Wisdom
Scripture: 1 Kings 3:1-28
Theme: True wisdom begins with reverence for God
Age Group: Jr High (Ages 12-14)
Overview
Solomon’s Wisdom: True Wisdom Begins with Reverence for God
Welcome, everyone! Today, we’re going to dive into an incredible story about a young king named Solomon. He was given a unique opportunity by God, and his choice reveals a powerful truth: true wisdom isn’t about being the smartest person in the room, but about having a heart that honors and seeks God first. This lesson will show us how to pursue that kind of wisdom in our own lives, especially as you navigate the exciting (and sometimes tricky!) junior high years.
Opening Hook: What’s Your #1 Wish?
Imagine you’ve just woken up from a dream, but this wasn’t just any dream. In it, God Himself appeared to you and said, “Ask for whatever you want me to give you.” Seriously! You can ask for ANYTHING. What would be the very first thing that pops into your mind?
- Take a minute and write down your #1 wish on a piece of paper. Don’t overthink it, just write the first thing that comes to mind.
- Now, let’s share a few! (Teacher: Ask for volunteers to share. Listen without judgment.)
It’s fun to think about what we’d wish for, right? Maybe it’s a new phone, straight A’s without studying, being a famous influencer, or never having awkward moments. Keep your wish in mind as we hear about what Solomon wished for.
The Story of Solomon’s Amazing Request (1 Kings 3:1-28)
After King David, a great king, passed away, his son Solomon became the new king of Israel. Solomon was young, and he knew he had a huge responsibility. But he also loved the Lord and wanted to honor God.
God Appears to Solomon (1 Kings 3:4-9)
One night, Solomon went to Gibeon, an important place of worship, to offer sacrifices to God. While he was there, God appeared to him in a dream. This wasn’t just any dream; it was a direct conversation! God said to Solomon, “Ask for whatever you want me to give you.”
Think back to your own wish. What do you think Solomon asked for? Riches? Power? To live a super long life? To defeat all his enemies?
Solomon’s response was incredible. He remembered that God had been good to his father David, and now to him. He humbly said, “Lord my God, you have made your servant king in place of my father David. But I am only a little child and do not know how to carry out my duties. Your servant is here among the people you have chosen, a great people, too numerous to count or number. So give your servant an understanding heart to govern your people and to discern between right and wrong.”
God’s Amazing Response (1 Kings 3:10-15)
God was super pleased with Solomon