In the first chapter of the second book of Chronicles, we see King Solomon’s first dramatic encounter with the LORD after offering a thousand burnt offerings, where the LORD told him to ask for something. The young king remarkably asked for wisdom to lead the people of Israel who he had been entrusted with. God was very impressed with this answer of his.

By some careful observations, we realize that, yes, he truly had a strong desire for God and to lead the people in God’s way, but there was a big motivation that helped fan to flame this desire—his father, David.

1 Chronicles 22:6–13(NKJV)

6 - Then he called for his son Solomon, and charged him to build a house for the LORD God of Israel.

7 - And David said to Solomon: "My son, as for me, it was in my mind to build a house to the name of the LORD my God;

8 - but the word of the LORD came to me, saying, "You have shed much blood and have made great wars; you shall not build a house for My name, because you have shed much blood on the earth in My sight.

9 - Behold, a son shall be born to you, who shall be a man of rest; and I will give him rest from all his enemies all around. His name shall be Solomon, for I will give peace and quietness to Israel in his days.

10 - He shall build a house for My name, and he shall be My son, and I will be his Father; and I will establish the throne of his kingdom over Israel forever.'

11 - Now, my son, may the LORD be with you; and may you prosper, and build the house of the LORD your God, as He has said to you.

12 - Only may the LORD give you WISDOM and UNDERSTANDING, and give you charge concerning Israel, that you may keep the law of the LORD your God.

13 - Then you will prosper, if you take care to fulfill the statutes and judgments with which the LORD charged Moses concerning Israel. Be strong and of good courage; do not fear nor be dismayed.

Solomon’s encounter with the LORD would happen shortly after this, not long after his father had passed.

In his collection of proverbs, he wrote something really noteworthy:

Proverbs 4:1–7(NKJV)

1 - Hear, my children, the instruction of a father, And give attention to know understanding;

2 - For I give you good doctrine: Do not forsake my law.

3 - When I was my father's son, tender and the only one in the sight of my mother,

4 - He also taught me, and said to me: "Let your heart retain my words; keep my commands, and live.

5 - Get WISDOM! Get UNDERSTANDING! Do not forget, nor turn away from the words of my mouth.

6 - Do not forsake her, and she will preserve you; love her, and she will keep you.

7 - WISDOM is the principal thing; therefore get WISDOM. And in all your getting, get UNDERSTANDING.

Truly, having wise parents and receiving godly counsel from them is a tremendous blessing.

Victor Ibosiola © 2025

An Excerpt from Guard Your Heart (2023)

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