In what ways can we apply Solomon's example of wisdom in our lives? Seeing Solomon’s Wisdom in 2 Chronicles 9:23 “All the kings of the earth sought an audience with Solomon to hear the wisdom God had put in his heart.” Core Observations • Solomon’s wisdom is explicitly attributed to God, not to natural aptitude. • That wisdom had a magnetic quality—rulers left their thrones to learn from him. • The verse shows wisdom operating in public life, blessing entire nations, not just the king himself. Key Principles to Embrace • Wisdom begins with God (Proverbs 9:10). • Wisdom is given to those who ask (James 1:5). • Wisdom glorifies God and serves people (1 Kings 3:28). • Wisdom is observable; it produces visible fruit (Matthew 11:19). Practical Ways to Walk in Solomon-Like Wisdom 1. Receive Wisdom as a Gift – Daily acknowledge God as the source of insight. – Pray specifically for wisdom before decisions, claiming James 1:5. 2. Prioritize the Word – Immerse yourself in Proverbs; read a chapter a day. – Anchor choices to Scripture’s clear principles (Psalm 119:105). 3. Cultivate a Listening Heart – Solomon asked for “an understanding heart” (1 Kings 3:9). – Slow down, listen fully before speaking (Proverbs 18:13). – Invite counsel from mature believers (Proverbs 15:22). 4. Act on What You Know – Wisdom is proven by obedience (Matthew 7:24-25). – Write action steps after each Bible reading. – Set measurable goals that align with God’s commands. 5. Let Wisdom Bless Others – Share insights freely; don’t hoard knowledge (Colossians 3:16). – Mentor younger believers; replicate a culture of godly discernment (2 Timothy 2:2). 6. Pursue Excellence in Your Vocation – Solomon’s projects—temple, administration, literature—showed skill (1 Kings 4:30-34). – Aim for quality and integrity at work; competence evangelizes (Daniel 6:3-4). 7. Guard Humility – Later lapses remind us pride corrodes wisdom (1 Kings 11:1-4). – Regularly examine motives; confess drift quickly (Psalm 139:23-24). 8. Invest in God-Honoring Beauty – The queen of Sheba marveled at both wisdom and aesthetics (2 Chronicles 9:3-4). – Create environments—homes, churches—that reflect order and joy (Philippians 4:8). Scriptures That Reinforce the Call • Proverbs 4:7 – “Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom.” • Ecclesiastes 7:12 – “Wisdom preserves the life of him who has it.” • Matthew 12:42 – Jesus cites the queen of the South seeking Solomon, pointing to Himself as greater wisdom. • Ephesians 5:15-17 – “Walk circumspectly… redeeming the time… understand what the Lord’s will is.” Living It Out This Week • Set a specific time to ask God for wisdom each morning. • Identify one decision awaiting you; apply at least one proverb to it. • Share a biblical insight with a friend or coworker to encourage them. • Evaluate one area of life for excellence—finances, work ethic, relationships—and create a plan to improve. By rooting ourselves in the same God who filled Solomon’s heart, we can navigate today’s complexities with heaven-sent clarity and become beacons of light in our own circles. |