“Solomon’s Wisdom” Learning to Ask God for What Matters Most 1 King 3
Have you ever wished you could ask God for anything? What would you choose — toys, riches, superpowers, or a lifetime of happiness? Solomon was a king of Israel and the son of King David and Bathsheba. He became king after his father, David, died. Even though Solomon was still young, God chose him to lead His people.
In this story from 1 Kings 3: 12-13, we discover how Solomon’s humble request pleased God and how He gave Solomon a wise and understanding heart. Solomon is known in the Bible as the wisest man who ever lived because he asked God for wisdom instead of riches or power
As we explore this lesson, kids will learn that they, too, can ask God for wisdom every day — to make good choices, to be kind to others, and to live in a way that honors Him. Let’s dive into the story of Solomon and see how God’s wisdom can guide us, even in the toughest situations!
Bible Passage: 1 King 3: 12-13, 16-28
Key Truth for Today: True wisdom doesn’t come from books or age — it comes from God!
READ TO YOUR OWN BIBLE
Solomon’s Prayer for Wisdom (1 Kings 3:1–15)
After King David died, his son Solomon became king of Israel. Solomon loved God and wanted to lead His people well, just like his father had done.
One night, while Solomon was asleep, God appeared to him in a dream and said, “Ask for anything you want, and I will give it to you.”
Solomon could have asked for money, power, or fame — but instead, he said, “Lord, I am young and don’t know how to rule. Please give me a wise and understanding heart so I can know right from wrong and lead Your people well.”
God was very happy with Solomon’s answer! 💖
So He said, “Because you have asked for wisdom and not riches or power,or the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself understanding to discern what is right, I will give you wisdom like no one else — and I will also bless you with riches and honor.”
When Solomon woke up, he realized it had been a dream — but it was a message from God. Solomon offered sacrifices and thanked the Lord for His goodness.
Solomon’s Wise Decision (1 Kings 3:16–28)
Soon, Solomon’s wisdom was tested.
Two women came to him with a big problem: both claimed to be the mother of the same baby boy. One baby had sadly died, and each woman said the living baby was hers.
How could Solomon know who was telling the truth? 🤔
Then Solomon said, “Bring me a sword. Cut the living baby in two, and give each woman half.”
Everyone was shocked! But Solomon wasn’t being cruel — he was testing their hearts.
One woman cried out, “Please, my lord, don’t kill the baby! Give him to her — just let him live!”
The other woman said, “Go ahead, divide him. He won’t be hers or mine.”
Then Solomon said, “Give the living baby to the first woman. She is the true mother.”
When the people heard about this, they were amazed! They saw that God had truly given Solomon great wisdom to make fair and right decisions.
Because of King Solomon’s wisdom, people from many nations came to visit Solomon to hear his wise words — even the famous Queen of Sheba traveled far to meet him!
Solomon also built a beautiful Temple in Jerusalem, where the people of Israel could worship God. He wrote many of the Proverbs, as well as Ecclesiastes and parts of Song of Solomon, books that teach about life, love, and God’s truth.
Lesson for Kids:
- Solomon could have asked for anything — but he chose wisdom!
- God is pleased when we ask for His guidance, not just things we want.
- True wisdom means making choices that honor God and help others.
Memory Verse:
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all.”
— James 1:5
Kid Application:
- Before making choices, pray and ask God for wisdom.
- Wisdom helps you be kind, honest, and fair — just like Solomon.
- God’s wisdom helps you make the right decisions, even when it’s hard!
Children’s Sermon Lesson: Wise Up! 1 Kings 3:3-14; Ephesians 5:15-21
Coloring Page Mother and the Baby
