CHOOSE WISDOM

1 KINGS 3:5-6, 9 (MSG)
   GOD appeared to Solomon in a dream: God said, “What can I give you? Ask.”
   Solomon said, "Here’s what I want: Give me a God-listening heart so I can lead your people well, discerning the difference between good and evil."

MATTHEW 4:8-10 (MSG)
   For the third test, the Devil took him to the peak of a huge mountain. He gestured expansively, pointing out all the earth’s kingdoms, how glorious they all were. Then he said, “They’re yours—lock, stock, and barrel. Just go down on your knees and worship me, and they’re yours.”
   Jesus’ refusal was curt: “Beat it, Satan!” He backed his rebuke with a third quotation from Deuteronomy: “Worship the Lord your God, and only him. Serve him with absolute single-heartedness.”

SUMMARY SENTENCE
When given the choice, and you will be, stay focused and ask for a "God-listening heart." 

DAILY FODDER
How do the events of Matthew 4:8-10 echo those of 1 Kings 3:5-9? How is Satan so  presumptuous? How is Jesus so wise?

PRAYER
Almighty God, you are the only one worthy of our attention and allegiance. I admit that I sometimes entertain the devil's invitations, unaware of the source or the situation. So, I would echo Solomon in asking you to equip me with your wisdom. I want to make a difference in the world around me so I need a level of discernment that can't be found anywhere but with you. Amen.

THE LORD’S PRAYER (ABP)
Our Father in Heaven,
     we hold your name in the highest regard.
Please come and establish your reign here on earth
     so that everything that happens here will align
     with what is happening in heaven.

Give us enough food for today.

Forgive us our wrongdoing,
     and we’ll forgive those who have wronged us.
Shield us from the trials and temptations that come our way.
Lastly, we pray that you will protect us from all forms of evil. Amen.