1 Kings 3

Draw and label the following image in your notebook. You will continue to add more to your drawing throughout the lesson.

On the right side of your drawing, write some ways the Lord invites people to participate in His work.

On the left side of your drawing, write some ways people might feel inadequate to serve the Lord.

When King David died, his son Solomon was chosen by the Lord to reign as king of Israel (see 1 Kings 1:11–13). Solomon loved the Lord and desired to be a righteous king (see 1 Kings 3:3). But even Solomon had some worries about living up to his responsibilities. One evening the Lord appeared to Solomon and asked what Solomon desired (see 1 Kings 3:5).

Read 1 Kings 3:6–9. Mark words or phrases that indicate Solomon’s attitude while talking with the Lord.

Read 1 Kings 3:10–14 to see how the Lord responded to Solomon’s desires.

You may want to add a note next to the phrase “a wise and a understanding heart.” In the note, write what you think this phrase means. You could also add your response to the following question:

• How could a “wise and understanding heart” (verse 12) and “riches and honor” (verse 13) increase Solomon’s ability to serve the Lord righteously?

One truth we learn from the Lord’s interaction with Solomon is, as we humbly recognize our weakness and seek the Lord’s help to bless others, He will increase our ability to accomplish His work.

King Solomon used what the Lord blessed him with to be a good king. Read one of the following examples of how he used these gifts to bless others:

• 1 Kings 3:16–28. Two women argued over who was the mother of a baby.

• 1 Kings 4:24–25, 29–32, 34. The results of Solomon’s reign.

Read the following statement by President Thomas S. Monson (1927–2018), looking for the promise given to all who are willing to participate in the Lord’s work:

23:52

Now, some of you may be shy by nature or consider yourselves inadequate to respond affirmatively to [the Lord]. Remember that this work is not yours and mine alone. It is the Lord’s work, and when we are on the Lord’s errand, we are entitled to the Lord’s help. Remember that the Lord will shape the back to bear the burden placed upon it. (“To Learn, to Do, to Be,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2008, 62)

• How might President Monson’s teachings help someone who was worried about their ability to serve the Lord?

Add to your picture a bridge titled “The Lord’s Help.”

Review the following study options. Complete one or more.

Option A

How could recognizing my weaknesses prepare me to do the Lord’s work?

The Lord can help you recognize your weaknesses. Read the following scripture passages and conference message. Link the passages.

• Ether 12:27

• Doctrine and Covenants 112:10

Elder Larry R. Lawrence of the Seventy taught:

10:25

I would like to suggest that each of you participate in a spiritual exercise sometime soon, perhaps even tonight while saying your prayers. Humbly ask the Lord the following question: “What is keeping me from progressing?” In other words: “What lack I yet?” Then wait quietly for a response. If you are sincere, the answer will soon become clear. It will be revelation intended just for you. (“What Lack I Yet?” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2015, 35)

Take a few minutes to act on Elder Lawrence’s suggestion. On your picture, record impressions about how you can act in faith to overcome your weaknesses with the Lord’s help.

Lesson Purpose: To help you understand that the Lord will bless you with the ability to accomplish His work.

Share one or more of the following with your teacher or class:

• The drawing you created.

• Your testimony about the Lord’s ability to help you accomplish His work.

• Something specific you did to achieve the purpose of this lesson.

• Any questions this lesson raised for you. How will you try to find answers to your questions?