Read 1 Kings 3:1-15

The Value of Wisdom

Solomon has a reputation for wisdom, despite his many shortcomings. When studying the inspired account of the third king’s life, it is remarkable that he has retained such a stellar reputation among Bible students. “And Solomon loved the Lord, walking in the statutes of his father David, except that he sacrificed and burned incense at the high places” (1 Kings 3:3). To gloss over such a statement is to ignore the consequences of that word “except.” God has always demanded “man’s all” (Ecclesiastes 12:13; cf. Mark 12:30; Romans 12:1-2).

Nevertheless, there were instances of brilliance in Solomon’s reign. One such instance is recorded in 1 Kings 3 when God appeared to the king and said, “Ask! What shall I give you?” (1 Kings 3:5). The king’s answer asked for nothing more than “an understanding heart to judge Your people, that I may discern between good and evil” (1 Kings 3:9).

God, rich in mercy and desiring to bless His servants, granted Solomon’s prayer. Not only did God bless Solomon with wisdom, but He also granted Him great material wealth and political power, “so that there shall not be anyone like you among the kings all your days” (1 Kings 3:13). There was, however, a stipulation: “So if you walk in My ways, to keep My statutes and My commandments, as your father David walked, then I will lengthen your days” (1 Kings 3:14).

Is the same blessing not available to each of us today, along with the same condition? The inspired James wrote, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways” (James 1:5-8).

Yes, wisdom is available to those who desire to serve God! Are you a Christian? Have you asked for wisdom? Don’t doubt that God can give you what you ask for—He can and He will!