DAILY HOPE DEVOTIONALS: APRIL 15TH
TOPIC: Seek First the Kingdom of God (2)
Scripture Reading: 2 Chro. 1: 7 – 12; Psa. 73: 26
It would be interesting to know that; King Solomon began his reign as King over Israel, with a public visit to God’s altar. He referred himself to the providence of God in order for him to enjoy comfort throughout his tenure as a king. He gathered the people to Gibeon where the Tabernacle stood still, there he offered a thousand sacrifices to the Lord. That night the Lord cane to him and said, “Ask, what shall I give you?” Have you ever wondered what you would ask for if God should appear to you and say, “ask, what shall I give you?” What you wish for actually reveals much about your spiritual state. If you are thinking of material things or carnal/temporal things, then you will ask for fat bank account balance, building of mansions, fanciful cars and so on. But if you wish to be more like Jesus, or have a more consistent prayer life, or to be a better witness for Christ, then; is a revelation that your values are in the things that are eternal and enduring.
King Solomon realized that the calling of God upon his life was beyond his own capacities to properly accomplish them; hence, he asked God for wisdom. He asked for divine enabling grace for him to do the things that God had called him to do. The request was in harmony with the purposes of God. John 14: 13 says, “And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the son”. A sure way of getting your prayers answered is to discover the will of God and to make that your prayer. God was very pleased with Solomon’s request and His response was overwhelming (2 Chro 1: 11 – 12).
Jesus said the same thing to us, “seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Matt. 6: 33). If you gain the whole world and you lose your soul, of what profit will that be to you? What solace could you find realizing that you were the richest man in hell? Therefore, the wisest thing that you could ever ask for is for God to forgive your sins. Then ask Him to show you what His purpose is for your life, because, this life will soon be past, and only the things you have done for Christ will last. Go further to ask Him for the ability to accomplish those things that He want you to do. Also request Him to make you an instrument through whom He can advance His kingdom here on earth.
Prayer:
*Let my desire on earth be in line with your purpose for my life.
*God, keep me humble and to realize that; to you belongs all the praise, honor, glory and honor, as you accomplish your will through me.
(revmrspatienceudenyi@hopealivechurch)