Solomon is known as the wisest king in Israel’s history. Yet that wisdom did not come from his personal intelligence, but from the relationship he built with God. When God appeared to him in a dream and asked what he desired, Solomon did not ask for wealth, long life, or victory over his enemies, but for a heart that understands how to judge matters in order to lead God’s people (1 Kings 3:9).
That request pleased God. God’s Word says, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding” (Proverbs 9:10). Solomon understood that the source of true wisdom is not life experience or human cleverness, but reverence and submission to God.
However, Solomon’s journey also became a valuable lesson. Although he was given extraordinary wisdom, in his old age he was tempted by the idolatry brought by his wives (1 Kings 11:4). From this we learn that wisdom is not only about having correct knowledge, but also about keeping the heart in the fear of the Lord every day. Without the fear of the Lord, wisdom can turn into pride or foolishness.
In our lives today, we often look for solutions from the world: motivational books, advice from famous people, or personal experience. All of these can be good, but without the foundation of the fear of the Lord, our wisdom will be fragile. The wisdom that comes from God does not merely make us smart in making decisions, but also leads us to live rightly, justly, and lovingly. James wrote, “But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy” (James 3:17).
Solomon succeeded in establishing the kingdom wisely at the beginning of his reign because he relied on God. But when he drifted away, his kingdom was divided. Likewise with us, wisdom will only endure if we remain close to God.
Let us learn from Solomon. Ask for wisdom not for personal pride, but so that our lives may please God and become a blessing to others. When we place the fear of the Lord as our foundation, our decisions, words, and attitudes will be filled with true wisdom.
Lord, teach me to always fear You in every step of my life. Give me wisdom from heaven so that I can make the right decisions, live with love, and be a blessing to others. Protect my heart from pride, and make me humble before You. Amen.
