Stepping Up to the Challenge

Ever felt overwhelmed by a task, or a job. Maybe God is calling you to do something you don’t feel qualified to do. Solomon expressed this feeling after his father David died and he was made king. He was humbled by the job ahead of him.

In 1 Kings 3:7, Solomon said to the Lord, “I am but a little child; I do not know how to go out or come in (NASB).” He must have felt intimidated by the responsibility of the job ruling over God’s chosen people “who are too many to be numbered or counted (8).” Instead of panicking, he asked God, “So give Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people to discern between good and evil. For who is able to judge this great people of Yours?”

Solomon’s response to his assignment is instructive to us. When we feel overwhelmed by a task or job, we should humble ourselves before God and admit our feelings to Him. Solomon did this when he said to God, “I am but a child.” Jesus said, “Whoever then humbles himself as this child, he is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 18:4).”

God wants a humble servant dependent on Him, not someone who relies on their own strength. He wants someone who will turn to him for wisdom and discernment. “Trust in the LORD with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding,” Proverbs 3:5 tells us. Prayerfully seek God, his wisdom and discernment, to guide you. May He be the source of your strength.

© 2024, Chris G. Thelen