How can we seek and apply God-given wisdom in our daily lives? Seeing Solomon’s Wisdom Up Close “‘The report I heard in my own country about your words and wisdom is true.’” – 1 Kings 10:6 • The Queen of Sheba traveled hundreds of miles because rumors of Solomon’s God-given insight stirred her curiosity. • When she arrived, she confirmed that the wisdom flowing from Solomon’s lips wasn’t legend; it was reality. • Her testimony reminds us that genuine wisdom is so evident it can be “seen” and verified by outsiders. Recognizing the Source of True Wisdom • 1 Kings 3:12 shows God as the One who grants wisdom: “I will give you a wise and discerning heart.” • Proverbs 2:6: “For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” • James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.” The consistent thread: wisdom is not self-generated; it is a gift from a generous God. Practical Ways to Seek God’s Wisdom • Ask specifically. – Begin the day with an honest request: “Lord, please give me wisdom for today’s choices.” (James 1:5) • Immerse yourself in Scripture. – Colossians 3:16: “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly.” – Commit to steady, systematic Bible reading; wisdom grows as the mind is saturated with God’s thoughts. • Listen before speaking. – Proverbs 18:13: “He who answers a matter before he hears it… it is folly and shame to him.” – Pause, pray, process. • Seek godly counsel. – Proverbs 15:22: “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” – Invite mature believers to weigh in before major decisions. • Practice humility. – Proverbs 11:2: “With humility comes wisdom.” – Admit limitations; a teachable spirit attracts divine guidance. Applying Wisdom in Daily Decisions 1. Filter choices through God’s revealed will. – 2 Timothy 3:16-17: God’s word “equips” for “every good work.” 2. Weigh motives. – James 3:17: godly wisdom is “pure… peace-loving… full of mercy.” 3. Consider consequences. – Proverbs 14:15: “A prudent man gives thought to his steps.” 4. Act promptly once clarity comes. – Ecclesiastes 11:4 warns against perpetual delay; wisdom moves from knowing to doing. Guardrails That Preserve Wisdom • Consistent prayer life keeps the heart aligned with God’s purposes. • Fellowship with believers provides accountability. • Regular repentance clears away attitudes that cloud judgment. • Gratitude cultivates sensitivity to God’s ongoing guidance. Encouragement for the Journey Solomon’s story began with a simple request for wisdom, and God delighted to grant it (1 Kings 3:9-13). The same Lord stands ready to guide you through Scripture, prayer, counsel, and the quiet nudges of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:12). Seek Him earnestly, apply what He gives faithfully, and others—like the Queen of Sheba—will see the evidence of heaven’s wisdom at work in you. |