Two-minute read.
When Solomon became king of Israel after his father, David, God appeared to him in a dream and asked a simple yet complex question:
“Ask for whatever you want me to give you.”
1 Kings 3:5b
Solomon didn’t ask for money, wealth, or the death of his enemies; the young king asked for wisdom. Divine knowledge has more value than anything else on Earth. Knowing how to represent God well, loving people for Him, and building strong, healthy relationships only happen when we partner with the Savior. Solomon knew he couldn’t rule his kingdom well without the help of God. By seeking wisdom above jewels, David’s son found favor with the Lord:
“So God said to him, ‘Since you have asked for this and not for long life or wealth for yourself, nor have you asked for the death of your enemies but for discernment in administering justice, I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there will never have been anyone like you, nor will there ever be. Moreover, I will give you what you have not asked for—both wealth and honor—so that in your lifetime you will have no equal among kings.”
1 Kings 3:11-13
By seeking wisdom above all else, Solomon received the other blessings. Without divine knowledge, the king couldn’t reign over his kingdom, and we can’t rule over ours.
We may not rule a nation, but each of us has a kingdom to watch over. Loving God and others requires a partnership with the Savior and a trust in His wisdom. The more we seek Jesus, the wiser we will become and the more abundantly we will live.
Journal Question:
Why do you think wisdom has more value than jewels?
In what way has divine knowledge enriched your life?
If God asked you what you wanted, how would you reply?
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for giving us such powerful stories to teach us about Your ways. Let us seek wisdom above all else, and allow You to do the rest. Help us rule our kingdoms well and honor You in all we do.
IJNIP. Amen
