How can we share God-given wisdom with others, as Solomon did? The Drawing Power of Divine Wisdom “Men of all nations came to listen to Solomon’s wisdom, sent by all the kings of the earth who had heard of his wisdom.” — 1 Kings 4:34 Solomon did not advertise himself; God’s wisdom in him simply attracted people. Because Scripture is accurate and literal, we know this actually happened—and it teaches timeless principles for us today. Receiving from the Same Source • 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.” God alone produces the wisdom we pass along. Solomon asked; God answered (1 Kings 3:9–12). The pattern is unchanged: 1. Ask humbly. 2. Expect confidently. 3. Wait patiently. 4. Obey immediately. Preparing Our Lives as Platforms Before anyone listened to Solomon, they observed his life and kingdom (1 Kings 4:20–28). Wisdom is more easily heard when it is first seen. • Cultivate integrity (Proverbs 10:9). • Practice diligent work (Colossians 3:23). • Maintain a reverent walk with God (Psalm 111:10). A life aligned with truth becomes a megaphone for truth. Speaking Wisdom in Everyday Conversation Colossians 4:5–6: “Walk in wisdom toward outsiders… Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt.” Practical ways: • Share Scripture naturally in discussion, not as a lecture but as part of normal talk. • Tell personal stories of how God’s word has guided specific choices. • Use simple, vivid language; Solomon’s proverbs paint pictures (e.g., Proverbs 6:6–8). • Listen first. People welcomed Solomon’s words because he understood their concerns (1 Kings 3:16–28). Living Wisdom Before a Watching World Matthew 5:14–16 calls believers “the light of the world.” Ways to shine: • Consistent ethical decisions at work. • Honoring marriage vows and family commitments. • Responding to conflict with gentleness (James 3:17). • Demonstrating contentment over materialism (1 Timothy 6:6). As with Solomon, visible righteousness invites questions that open doors for verbal witness. Nurturing a Culture of Wisdom in the Church Solomon gathered wise counselors (1 Kings 4:1–6). Likewise: • Encourage intergenerational mentoring (Titus 2:3–7). • Read and discuss Proverbs together. • Celebrate testimonies of applied wisdom, not merely achievements. • Provide safe settings where younger believers can ask for counsel. Extending Wisdom to the Nations Acts 1:8: “You will be My witnesses… to the ends of the earth.” • Support translation and distribution of Scripture—the wellspring of wisdom. • Equip missionaries with doctrinally solid resources. • Use technology (blogs, podcasts, social media) to post bite-sized biblical insights. • Host community seminars on parenting, finances, or ethics, grounding every principle in Scripture. Guardrails Against Pride Solomon’s later life warns us (1 Kings 11:1–11). Sharing wisdom can breed self-exaltation. Safeguards: • Daily worship that magnifies God, not self (Psalm 115:1). • Accountability partners who may correct us (Proverbs 27:6). • Regular Scripture intake to keep our hearts tender (Hebrews 4:12). The Ongoing Invitation God still delights to pour out wisdom on any believer who asks, lives it, and gives it away. As we follow Solomon’s early example—seeking, embodying, and communicating God-given insight—people around us will “come to listen,” ultimately meeting the Lord who is “greater than Solomon” (Matthew 12:42). |
    |