Solomon wrote the book we know as Ecclesiastes. The book is itself an enigma as the man who was also king of Israel, showed us a side of greatness and a side of utter contempt for God's word. I admit it's difficult at times for me to consider the wisdom of his teaching when I ponder on his dark side.

However, there's no doubt Solomon was very wise, a direct answer to his prayerful petition made as a young man to God. Solomon realized his need for God's grace to rule the people. He also realized he lacked natural ability, so he promised to honor God if he was granted wisdom and discernment. God was impressed with Solomon's request and granted it, also giving him riches and fame as well.

What was the gift called wisdom and discernment that God gave Solomon? Most everyone is familiar with the wise judgment rendered to two women claiming to be the parent of a child. Today, DNA testing could have solved the question, but back then there was no way to know the truth except through God's divine help to resolve the matter.

What is wisdom? Simply, it's seeing life from God's perspective. What then, is discernment? Discernment, or what could be called "divine" knowledge is the God-given ability to tell truth from falsehood. There you have it. The two things that made all the people of the world beat a path to Israel to listen to his judgment. See things from God's point of view and discern truth. I think every child of God could use those qualities, don't you?

I think Solomon should asked for one more thing. He should have asked God to prevent him from taking his newfound abilities and presuming he didn't need to depend on God any more. This strength of character is what Solomon lacked in the latter part of his life. He failed to live according to God's directives as found in Scripture.

Solomon found that much wisdom leads to much sorrow and more knowledge to more grief. Be careful before asking God for Solomon's gift because you will be asking for sorrow and grief. But if you must ask for wisdom, ask for two more things: ask for His grace to know how to use it and ask God to never let you get too smart for your own britches!

1 Developed from Read the Bible Thru ( Ec. 1:1-3:22 2 Co. 6:1-13 Ps. 46:1-11 Pr. 22:15 )
2. Scripture comes from the Holy Bible, New International Version; (c)1978 by New York International Bible Society

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