2 Chronicles 1

I think this is one of the neatest stories in the Bible. Solomon asks for what is most important—and ends up receiving everything that is most important as well as all the "perks." It always reminds me of what Jesus told His disciples: "But seek first [God's] kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." (Matt 6:33)

Actually, it seems like we just went over this story (and we did, in 1 Kings 3). But here was something that really jumped out at me this time around: "God said to Solomon, 'Since this is your heart’s desire and you have not asked for wealth, possessions or honor, nor for the death of your enemies, and since you have not asked for a long life but for wisdom and knowledge to govern my people over whom I have made you king, therefore wisdom and knowledge will be given you.'" (vs 11-12)

Solomon had not asked for the death of his enemies. He had not wished harm on those who had done wrong to him. And this was singled out by God as something praiseworthy. He made particular mention of it. And I think He made particular mention of it because it’s a reflection of what He is like.

God was pleased that Solomon was the kind of man who didn’t want to destroy his enemies, because God is the kind of person who doesn’t seek to destroy His enemies either. He returns good for evil. He metes out mercy instead of punishment. If He was a bloodthirsty avenger, He would recognize and admire that same characteristics in His creatures. Instead, He praised Solomon for not taking the route of revenge.