What can we learn about God's wisdom from Solomon's reputation in this verse? Scripture Snapshot: 2 Chronicles 9:6 “But I did not believe what they said, until I came and saw with my own eyes. And indeed, not even half of the greatness of your wisdom was told me; you surpass the report I heard.” Key Observations from the Verse • Words come from the Queen of Sheba, a pagan monarch encountering Israel’s king. • Her skepticism turns to amazement when she personally experiences Solomon’s wisdom. • She confesses that Solomon’s wisdom is far greater than any secondhand report. • The focus is not merely on Solomon but on the God who granted him such wisdom (cf. 2 Chron 1:10-12). God’s Wisdom Displayed through Solomon • Divine gift, not human attainment – “God gave Solomon wisdom and very great insight” (1 Kings 4:29). • Comprehensive – touching governance, science, poetry, justice (1 Kings 4:32-34). • Attractive – even foreign dignitaries travel to hear it, fulfilling God’s promise that Israel would be a light to the nations (Deuteronomy 4:6-7). What We Learn about God’s Wisdom • It surpasses human expectation – “not even half… was told me.” God’s wisdom always exceeds the limits of human imagination (Ephesians 3:20). • It stands up to scrutiny – personal investigation only magnifies it. Truth invites examination. • It glorifies God through His servants – the queen’s astonishment ultimately points back to the Lord who “established you as king to maintain justice and righteousness” (2 Chron 9:8). • It is observable and practical – evident in decisions, administration, and everyday life, not locked in abstractions. Supporting Passages that Echo These Truths • James 1:5 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously… and it will be given to him.” • Proverbs 2:6 – “For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” • Romans 11:33 – “Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!” • Colossians 2:3 – “In Him are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” Applying These Truths Today • Ask boldly – God delights to give wisdom to those who seek it, just as He did for Solomon. • Expect more – His answers will often exceed our limited expectations. • Live visibly – let wise choices in work, family, and community become a testimony that draws others to the Lord. • Stay humble – Solomon’s greatness was derivative; ours is too. Adopt the attitude of 1 Corinthians 1:31: “Let him who boasts boast in the Lord.” |
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