Self-surrender

1 Kings 3:5-14

1. How did Solomon show his lack of self interest?

The LORD appeared to Solomon during the night in a dream, and God said, "Ask for whatever you want me to give you."

Solomon answered, "give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this great people of yours?"

The Lord was pleased that Solomon had asked for this.

So God said to him, "Since you have asked for this and not for long life or wealth for yourself, nor have asked for the death of your enemies but for discernment in administering justice, I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there will never have been anyone like you, nor will there ever be.

Moreover, I will give you what you have not asked for—both riches and honor—so that in your lifetime you will have no equal among kings. And if you walk in my ways and obey my statutes and commands as David your father did, I will give you a long life."

Acts 20:22-25

2. How did Paul consider his life?

Paul, compelled by the Spirit, am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there. He only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns that prison and hardships are facing him.

However, Paul consider his life worth nothing, if only he may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given—the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace.