Read: 1 Kings 3:4-15; James 1:5
So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. (1 Kings 3:9 NIV)
The story of Solomon makes me wonder. If God asked me the same question he asked Solomon, would I say, “Wisdom”? I’m not so sure. Would you? There are many great possibilities out there—physical strength, good health, some superpower, and of course, there’s money. But Solomon chose wisdom, really the best thing a king could ask for. And because he chose wisdom, God promised him riches and honor as well.
This important choice by Solomon reminds me of something Jesus says in his Sermon on the Mount: “Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Matt. 6:33). To put God and the things of God first in life is certainly a wise course of action. The Proverbs teach the same thing and actually mention that wisdom comes from God—“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom” (Prov. 9:10).
A person can be very smart and have a great deal of knowledge stored in their brain. But wisdom is something different. Solomon rightly asks for “a discerning heart . . . to distinguish between right and wrong” (1 Kings 3:9 NIV). Which is more important, knowledge or wisdom? Obviously they are both important, but when it comes to making decisions, I’d have to say it’s wisdom. And the great thing about what James says is that we can pray for it!
As you pray, ask God for wisdom to determine his will for you.
About the Author
Rev. John C. Koedyker is an ordained minister in the Reformed Church in America. He has served as a missionary to Japan as well as pastor of several churches in Iowa and Michigan. Until recently he served Muskegon Classis as its Stated Clerk for 18 years. He resides in Grand Haven, Michigan.
