By the way, at the time of this writing, the last round of waiting is almost done.
Let's ask Solomon in first Kings chapter 3 as we discover how he came to be the "wisest man on earth."
In His own words, Solomon recognized the monumental task of leading "great" (large number) people?" (3.8)
How was he to judge all the matters that would come before him?
By the way, at the time of this post, the last round of waiting is almost over. More later...
God's favor of wisdom to young King Solomon is recorded in the Bible in two major places: 1 Kings 3:4–15 and 2 Chronicles 1:1–13. Let us focus on the account in 1 Kings.
- The Location: Solomon traveled to Gibeon, (I Kings 3.4) which was the most important "high place" for worship at the time, to offer sacrifices to God. (3.2) Worship is an important part of wisdom, whether at home, at work or in the Lord's house.
- The Dream: (3.5-12) After Solomon offered a thousand burnt offerings, God appeared to him during the night in a dream and said, "Ask for whatever you want me to give you." Meditation is another important part of gaining wisdom for difficult circumstances.
- The Request: Feeling overwhelmed by his new royal responsibilities, Solomon humbly replied that he was like a "little child" (3.7) who did not know how to lead. He asked God for a discerning/understanding heart (3.9) to properly govern the people and distinguish between right and wrong. Finally, asking for clear direction is a humble way of saying you don't know what to do and deferring to the ONE who does.
God's Response
God was highly pleased that Solomon asked for the capability to serve his people rather than selfish requests like wealth, fame, a long life, or the death of his enemies. (3.10-14) As a result, God granted him unmatched wisdom and also bestowed upon him the riches and honor that he had not asked for.
Granted, you or I may not be in a place of such authority, however, there are too many details in life that indeed require such wisdom. Others have wondered about the will of God. This is where such wisdom is necessary.
- How can I know His will?
- Which way should I go?
- Which way should I choose?
A personal testimony regarding wisdom, according to His will is this; There was a time this believer suffered separation from a dear one. We are not referring to death, we are referring to the nastiness of visitation per a divorce decree. To say this momma's heart was ripped out is an understatement. During this time of repeated separation from the dear one, prayer was wont to be made as earnest as ever. Then came that still small voice that said "I can see what you cannot." The trial did not end until much later but the wisdom of those words brought a settled peace to endure to the end.
You see, I asked and He answered. Was it in the manner I desired, no. Did it calm my troubled soul, yes.
(3.25) He understood the real mother would rather yield her child to the other mother than see her child dead. At least, in this way, she could watch the infant grow up.
How did he understand this truth under such pressure? Divine inspiration.
For you and me, however, discovering the right thing to do may take more patience. A wise sunday school teacher told a group of teenagers, "when in doubt, DON'T!" If you can wait for an answer, good. If you can not wait for an answer and your "back is against the wall," then make the best decision you can with available bible knowledge at the time and trust the Lord for the outcome.
Hope this helps. God bless and keep you is my prayer.
