Taking Faith Home

DEVOTIONS

Read: 1 Kings 3:5-12.

Humans have proven throughout the ages that they can explain away any thoughts and

actions. Our own sense of truth and justice can be hurtful and unfair. We know how we can try

to fool ourselves and others. Solomon also knew this, so he prayed to God for “understanding

to discern what is right” (1 Kings 3:11b). The Hebrew literally says, “to hear justice.” That is, to

let Solomon’s mind perceive and hear real justice on behalf of others. This is a daring prayer

that puts others before his—and our own—interests. Our imperfect sense of justice and truth

needs the humility of Solomon to recognize that God’s truth stands out from our own. A good

example is when the disciples heard the many parables of Jesus. Perhaps the greater wisdom

would have been to acknowledge that they really did not understand them (Matthew 13:51).

Discuss: When have you prayed for wisdom and understanding?

Pray: God of justice and truth, give us a humble heart that we may see and judge people

with mercy and understanding that dares to love others through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

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