Read

1 Kings 3:16-28
1 Kings 5:1-6:38
2 Chronicles 2:1-18
2 Chronicles 3:1-14

1 Kings 3:28, "When all Israel heard the king's decision, the people were in awe of the king for they saw the wisdom God had given him for rendering justice."

Think

Knowledge and wisdom don't always go hand-in-hand. A person may have more degrees than a thermometer and a fancy title indicating vast book knowledge but then fail the test when it comes to understanding people and making good decisions. That's because knowledge is obtained, but wisdom is a gift from God that requires a listening ear and a heart tuned to His voice.

That was the case with Solomon. New in his reign over Israel, he didn't ask God for wealth and fame but for wisdom to guide his people. When two women came to him to settle a dispute over a child, he displayed his unique wisdom. One woman accused the other of swapping out her dead newborn for a live one during the night. He listened and made a wise decision to recognize the heart of the true mother - he called for a sword to cut the child in half to determine which woman wouldn't want the baby harmed. Seeing the true mother's heart, he rendered justice accordingly and correctly. The people were amazed by his discernment, and his reputation for being wise grew.

It's apparent when you meet someone who possesses wisdom. They are quick to listen, and when they speak, it's with words of truth that can only come from being in tune with God. Follow Solomon's example and simply ask God for the gift of wisdom. The Bible says He gives it to anyone who asks without judgment. Do so, and you, too, will be counted among the wise!

Pray

Heavenly Father, Thank You for loving me.   I ask for the understanding heart and wisdom that only You can give.  Help me to truly listen to people and to discern Your voice that I may help others and be counted among the wise.  In Jesus' name, Amen.