Solomon demonstrates that the path to God’s favor is paved with humility, reliance on divine guidance, and a willingness to learn from the LORD.
Solomon addresses God with the words, “Now, O LORD my God, You have made Your servant king in place of my father David, yet I am but a little child; I do not know how to go out or come in” (v.7). Solomon, who reigned approximately from 970 BC to 931 BC, has just ascended the throne upon the death of his father David. David’s legacy held deep significance for the Israelites, as David had expanded Israel’s territory to its greatest extent and set up Jerusalem as the political and spiritual center of the nation. Solomon’s humility in likening himself to “a little child” underscores his sense of inexperience and awe at the daunting responsibilities of leading God’s people. The phrase “do not know how to go out or come in” reflects a confession of dependence on the LORD for wisdom and direction.
This moment is sometimes associated with Gibeon, an ancient Canaanite city located about six miles northwest of Jerusalem, where Solomon offered sacrifices and encountered the presence of God. While 1 Kings 3:7 does not explicitly mention Gibeon by name, the broader context of 1 Kings 3 includes Solomon’s supernatural dream there, in which God grants the young king an opportunity to request what he most desired. In choosing understanding and discernment over wealth or the downfall of his enemies, Solomon aligns himself with the future teachings of Christ, who commends seeking first the kingdom and righteousness of God (Matthew 6:33). Solomon’s plea indicates a posture of humility that believers throughout history have seen as a model for spiritual wisdom.
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1 Kings 3:7 meaning
Solomon addresses God with the words, “Now, O LORD my God, You have made Your servant king in place of my father David, yet I am but a little child; I do not know how to go out or come in” (v.7). Solomon, who reigned approximately from 970 BC to 931 BC, has just ascended the throne upon the death of his father David. David’s legacy held deep significance for the Israelites, as David had expanded Israel’s territory to its greatest extent and set up Jerusalem as the political and spiritual center of the nation. Solomon’s humility in likening himself to “a little child” underscores his sense of inexperience and awe at the daunting responsibilities of leading God’s people. The phrase “do not know how to go out or come in” reflects a confession of dependence on the LORD for wisdom and direction.
This moment is sometimes associated with Gibeon, an ancient Canaanite city located about six miles northwest of Jerusalem, where Solomon offered sacrifices and encountered the presence of God. While 1 Kings 3:7 does not explicitly mention Gibeon by name, the broader context of 1 Kings 3 includes Solomon’s supernatural dream there, in which God grants the young king an opportunity to request what he most desired. In choosing understanding and discernment over wealth or the downfall of his enemies, Solomon aligns himself with the future teachings of Christ, who commends seeking first the kingdom and righteousness of God (Matthew 6:33). Solomon’s plea indicates a posture of humility that believers throughout history have seen as a model for spiritual wisdom.