May 31 (Daily reading: 1 Kings 3-4) Solomon’s self-description resonates with most of us: “And now, LORD my God, You have made Your servant king in place of my father David, yet I am like a little boy; I do not know how to go out or come in” (3:7). We are called to participate in the kingdom of God, “to share in the inheritance of the saints in Light. For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son” (Col. 1:12-13). This is a glorious and royal calling, yet we often stand before God as little children, not knowing if we are coming or going! Solomon knew enough to know that he could not fulfill God’s calling without God’s help, so he asked for “an understanding heart” and God gave him “a wise and discerning heart” (3:9, 12).
We will see the word “wisdom” 44 times (in the NASB) as we read the proverbs that Solomon wrote. This was his testimony: “For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding” (Prov. 2:6). We will receive wisdom to the extent that we meditate on the Word of God. “My mouth will speak wisdom, and the meditation of my heart will be understanding” (Ps. 49:3).
When Jesus spoke, his “listeners were astonished, saying, “Where did this man learn these things, and what is this wisdom that has been given to Him” (Mk. 6:2). This wisdom that was “given” to Jesus was also given to Solomon upon his request. Can we have this wisdom? James said absolutely! “But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him” (Ja. 1:5).
– Al Gary
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