In this lesson, children learn that when Solomon was made king, he asked God for wisdom instead of riches, and God gave him what he asked for. This lesson suits children ages 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
Big Idea
God loves to give wise hearts to people who ask Him for help. When we need wisdom, we can always ask God, and He is ready to listen.
Memory Verse
2 Chronicles 1:10
Now give me wisdom and knowledge, that I may go out and come in before this people; for who can judge this great people of yours?”
(WEB)
Put one hand on your head and tap it gently while you say the verse. Then hold both hands out, palms up, like you are asking for a gift. Do this each time you say it so your body remembers the words.
The Story: 2 Chronicles 1 for Kids
Solomon was the son of King David. After his father died, Solomon became king of Israel, and God was with him. God made Solomon very great and very strong. Solomon knew he had a big job to do, so he went with all the leaders of Israel to a special holy place called Gibeon. There, they gathered in front of God’s Tent of Meeting.
That night, God appeared to Solomon in a dream. God said, “Ask me for anything you want, and I will give it to you.” Imagine how exciting that must have been for Solomon! He could have asked for gold, big houses, or a long life. But Solomon thought about what he needed most. He said, “Please give me wisdom and knowledge, so I can lead your people well.”
God was very happy with Solomon’s choice. God said, “You did not ask for riches or for your enemies to be harmed. You asked for wisdom to help my people. So I will give you wisdom. I will also give you riches and honor too.” God kept His promise, and Solomon became one of the richest and wisest kings who ever lived.
After this, Solomon went back to Jerusalem and ruled over Israel. He built up his kingdom, and he gathered many chariots and horses. The king made silver and gold so plentiful in Jerusalem that they were as common as stones in the street. God had blessed Solomon just as He promised.
Read It Together
2 Chronicles 1:1
Solomon the son of David was firmly established in his kingdom, and the LORD his God was with him, and made him exceedingly great.
(WEB)
Point out that the chapter begins by saying the LORD was with Solomon. Explain that God’s presence is what made Solomon strong, not his own power alone. Ask the children to notice who was with the king.
2 Chronicles 1:11-12
11 God said to Solomon, “Because this was in your heart, and you have not asked riches, wealth, honor, or the life of those who hate you, nor yet have you asked for long life; but have asked for wisdom and knowledge for yourself, that you may judge my people, over whom I have made you king, 12 therefore wisdom and knowledge is granted to you. I will give you riches, wealth, and honor, such as none of the kings have had who have been before you had, and none after you will have.”
(WEB)
Show the children how God praised Solomon for what he chose to ask. Point out that God gave Solomon wisdom along with the other things. Remind them that God is generous when we seek what is good.
2 Chronicles 1:7
That night, God appeared to Solomon and said to him, “Ask for what you want me to give you.”
(WEB)
Point out that God came to Solomon first and invited him to ask. Explain that God is always ready to hear from us. Let the children imagine what they would say if God asked them the same question.
Talk About It
- What do you think Solomon was thinking about when God told him to ask for anything?
- Why do you think Solomon asked for wisdom instead of gold or a long life?
- What is a time when you needed to make a wise choice, and how could you ask God for help?
- How did God show that He was pleased with Solomon’s request?
- What is one thing you would like to ask God for today, and why?
Activity Ideas
Crown of Wisdom Craft
You will need paper, markers, glue, and scissors. Cut a strip of paper long enough to wrap around a child’s head and tape it to fit. Have each child draw or write a wise thing they could ask God for on the crown. Let them wear their crowns while they talk about what they wrote.
Ask and Receive Game
You will need a few soft objects like socks or balls and a space to move around. One child stands as God and tosses an object to another child, who must first say “Please give me wisdom” before catching it. Keep the game moving and let children take turns being God. Talk afterward about why asking first mattered.
Wisdom Jar at Home
You will need a clean jar, paper slips, and a pen. Each day for one week, ask your child to write one thing they asked God for wisdom about and drop the slip into the jar. At the end of the week, read the slips together and pray over each one. This helps children see that asking God is a daily habit.
Teacher Notes
For adults, this passage shows that God welcomes our requests and wants us to ask for what matters most. Solomon’s choice reveals a heart that puts God’s people and God’s purposes above personal gain. Wisdom in Scripture is linked to reverence for God and a life lived according to His ways.
With children, be careful not to suggest that God always gives us riches or success when we pray. Solomon received riches as a gift from God in his specific calling, but Scripture does not promise that every prayer will be answered with material wealth. Focus instead on God’s faithfulness and His willingness to give wisdom to those who ask.
A Prayer to Close
Dear Father God, thank You for listening when we ask for help. Help us to think about what is truly good and ask You for wisdom each day. Give us hearts that love Your people and want to do what is right. We trust that You hear us and that You will guide us. Amen.
