1 Kings 4:29 - 5:18
Tuesday, 9 June 2021
“Now God gave Solomon [exceptional] wisdom and very great discernment and breadth of mind, like the sand of the seashore.” 1 Kings 4:29 [AMP]
God’s gift of wisdom to Solomon was seen reflected in every area of life— be it, his wise and discerning rule, his political decisions or his administrative ability. It is said his wisdom surpassed the wise men of his days and his depth of knowledge about varied subjects was so great that many came to hear him speak! In 1 Kings 5, we read of how he wisely planned the building of the Temple at Jerusalem.
Our key verse from today’s reading indicates that God gave Solomon:
Exceptional Wisdom
Solomon understood primarily that true wisdom lay in the reverential fear of the Lord. He wrote in Proverbs 9:10 [NLT] : “Fear of the Lord is the foundation of wisdom. Knowledge of the Holy One results in good judgment.” To all who desire to have wisdom- know your Creator! Solomon’s wisdom was seen in his governance- the prosperity the nation displayed during his reign, the cordial relationships he had with other nations. The king of Tyre testifies: ‘Blessed be the Lord this day, for He has given David a wise son over this great people!’ (V. 7) James writes this advice to us: “Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.” (James 3:13)
Great Discernment
The way Solomon makes a business deal with the king of Tyre is very interesting. He uses discernment in his communication and transactions for acquiring the building materials and work for the Temple! While we live in this world, we can be easily taken in by the worldly standards and ways in which it operates. But a child of God needs to be guided by the principles of the Word of God. Can we pray like the Psalmist: “Teach me proper discernment and understanding. For I consider your commands to be reliable.” (Ps.119:66 NET). It required for us to live wisely, discerning the times. Proverbs 14: 8 reminds us: “The wisdom of the prudent is to give thought to their ways, but the folly of fools is deception.”
Breadth of mind
Solomon’s breadth of mind showed his knowledge of a vast array of subjects as listed in the text. His wisdom is reflected in the wisdom books of Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Songs of Solomon, etc. People heard of his fame far and wide! God blessed Solomon with such great knowledge that his fame spread and people from faraway lands came to listen to him. Both old and young need to keep in mind that it is God who bestows wisdom, skills and the ability to learn. That is why it is written in James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
In spite of all the wisdom Solomon possessed, we know that he did some foolish things in the latter days of his life. It shows us our fallen nature that can succumb to evil if we do not depend on the Spirit of God who can give us the victory. [Refer Romans 8:6].
Jesus who spoke once to the Jews of His day: one who is “indeed a greater than Solomon is here.” (Matt.12:42), referring to Himself. Paul wrote in Col. 2:2-3: “…Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” If we have Christ in our lives, we are complete in Him and His wisdom will guide us all of our days!
Prayer:
LORD Jesus, I come to You the Source of all wisdom that You will guide my steps and grant me discernment to live pleasing to You.