How can we apply Solomon's example of wisdom in our daily decision-making? Solomon’s God-Given Wisdom: A Quick Snapshot • “And the LORD gave Solomon wisdom, just as He had promised him. There was peace between Hiram and Solomon, and the two of them made a treaty.” (1 Kings 5:12) • Scripture presents this historical event as literal: God fulfilled His promise (1 Kings 3:12), Solomon acted with discernment, and the nation enjoyed tangible blessing. Because the record is trustworthy, the same God stands ready to guide our decisions today. What We Learn from 1 Kings 5:12 • Wisdom originates with the LORD, not human ingenuity. • God’s wisdom produces peaceable outcomes (Solomon’s treaty with Hiram). • Wisdom is tied to God’s promises; when God speaks, He equips. Principles for Our Daily Decisions 1. Start with God’s Word – Psalm 119:105: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” – Practical takeaway: Before making a choice, ask, “What has God already said about this in Scripture?” 2. Ask for Wisdom Explicitly – 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.” – Make it a reflex: pray first, decide second. 3. Value Peaceable Outcomes – Romans 12:18: “If it is possible…live at peace with everyone.” – Evaluate options by their potential to foster peace and unity, not strife. 4. Honor Covenant Commitments – Solomon honored treaties; likewise, keep promises, contracts, and vows (Ecclesiastes 5:4-5). 5. Align with God’s Promises – 2 Peter 1:4 calls God’s promises “very great and precious.” Base plans on what God guarantees, not on speculation. Practical Steps to Seek Wisdom Daily • Set a non-negotiable time with Scripture each morning; read a chapter of Proverbs for calibrated insight. • Keep a “decision journal.” Write the issue, related verses, and sensed leading. Review later to trace God’s faithfulness. • Surround yourself with godly counselors (Proverbs 15:22). Choose friends who will echo Scripture, not worldly opinion. • Pause before pivotal choices. Even brief silence invites the Spirit’s nudge (Isaiah 30:15). • Act decisively once clarity comes. Solomon moved forward on the temple project; paralysis is not wisdom. Guardrails to Maintain Godly Discernment • Reject anything contradicting clear scriptural commands (Galatians 1:8). • Watch motives. Wisdom is “pure, peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy” (James 3:17). • Remember that earthly success never justifies disobedience (1 Kings 11 warns how Solomon later faltered). Encouragement from Related Passages • Proverbs 3:5-6: Trust, acknowledge, and God will “make your paths straight.” • Colossians 1:9-10: Paul prays believers be “filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom,” leading to fruitful lives. • Isaiah 48:17: “I am the LORD your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go.” As we imitate Solomon’s early practice of receiving and applying God-given wisdom, our everyday decisions can likewise produce peace, integrity, and tangible evidence that the LORD still guides His people. |
    |