Good morning, and welcome to The Journey Church!

Whether you are sitting with us right here in the sanctuary in Aberdeen or joining us on the livestream from your home, your car, or anywhere across the globe—we are so glad you are worshipping with us today.

Imagine for a moment that God appeared to you tonight and handed you an absolute blank check, asking one simple question: “Ask for whatever you want me to give you.”

What would your immediate answer be? Health? Financial security? Success?

In 1 Kings 3:5, King Solomon found himself in that exact situation. God appeared to him in a dream with that incredible offer. But instead of asking for wealth, fame, or a long life, Solomon made a request that surprised everyone. In 1 Kings 3:9, he prayed: “So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong.” And verse 10 tells us that the Lord was deeply pleased with his request.

Solomon recognized something profound: before he needed success, influence, or power, he needed a heart aligned with God. He recognized his own limitations, his need for divine guidance, and his need to stand right before the Almighty.

Today, as we open God's Word together,

we are leaning into that same posture of humility. In a world that tells us to defend our mistakes, cover up our flaws, and demand our own way, Scripture invites us to do something radical: Seek Forgiveness.