Wisdom from Above
1 Kings 3-5; Proverbs 15:33; James 1:5
When I think about the decisions I’ve made in life, the ones that shaped my path, I can see how often I leaned on my own understanding. Sometimes things worked out, but other times I stumbled, wishing I had slowed down and sought the Lord first. There’s a humility that comes in realizing wisdom is not something we can muster on our own. It is a gift.
In 1 Kings 3, we find Solomon at the very beginning of his reign. God appears to him in a dream and offers to give him anything he desires. Solomon doesn’t ask for wealth, power, or long life. Instead, he asks for wisdom: a discerning heart to lead God’s people. This request pleases the Lord, and He grants Solomon wisdom greater than any before or after him.
The very next story proves it. Two women come before Solomon, both claiming to be the mother of the same baby. With incredible discernment, Solomon reveals the true mother, not through force or guessing, but by understanding the heart of a mother’s love. His people are astonished, and word spreads quickly that God’s wisdom is with their king.
As the chapters unfold (1 Kings 4–5), we see the fruit of this wisdom. Solomon’s reign is marked by peace, prosperity, and honor. His words and insight draw the attention of nations around him. It is a living picture of Proverbs 15:33: “The fear of the Lord is instruction in wisdom, and humility comes before honor.” Solomon’s story also reflects the New Testament reminder in James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”
Solomon reminds us that wisdom isn’t about intellect or cleverness. It’s about reverence for God. It’s about humbling ourselves and acknowledging that we don’t know enough, but He does. And the same God who gave wisdom to Solomon delights to give wisdom to us today.
When I think about the choices before me now, both the simple and the overwhelming, I’m reminded that I don’t have to figure it all out alone. I can ask, and He will give. The humility to ask is the beginning of wisdom.
Where do you need God’s wisdom right now? In the place where I feel uncertain, I can pray with confidence, knowing God will meet me there with His wisdom. Just as He gave Solomon insight to lead a nation, He will guide me step by step as I surrender my decisions to Him.
Father, thank You for being the source of all wisdom. I confess how often I rely on my own understanding instead of turning to You. Teach me to walk in humility and reverence, asking for Your guidance in every decision. Give me wisdom that reflects Your heart and leads me closer to Jesus, the true King. Amen.
