NOTES for Ki1 3:4-13
Solomon’s desire to obtain wisdom, so necessary for a ruler, is of course understandable. But in asking God for it, he shows himself to be a man of iron logic and faith. His reasoning is simple: his father asked that his line continue, and the Lord gave him an heir. He himself is that heir; therefore God—the Lord of every living thing, the Master and Cause of life—appointed him to rule and to be an example to the people. Consequently, God will not abandon the king without His mercy but will give him what Solomon needs to administer the inheritance worthily. Solomon is certain that God always stands by His words and never breaks His promises.